In this episode of Trekking Through Compliance, we consider the episode The Cloud Minders, which aired on February 28, 1969, and occurred on Star Date 5818.4
When a botanical plague threatens to destroy all vegetation on Merak II, the Enterprise visits Ardana, the only known source of the xenite mineral needed to halt the plague; despite High Advisor Plasus’s request that they beam to the cloud city Stratos, Captain Kirk, and Spock beam directly down to the xenite mine entrance, where they are lassooed by the xenite miners.
Captain Kirk and Spock are entertained as guests on Stratos until the xenite can be found. Plasus’ daughter Droxine is fascinated with Spock, but the city servant and secret Trogglyte leader Vanna has an interest of a different kind for Captain Kirk: she attempts to take him hostage at the mining implementation point. And his forceful protests prompt Plasus to order their immediate departure from the city.
Back aboard the Enterprise, Captain Kirk learns from McCoy that unprocessed xenite emits an odorless, invisible gas that temporarily diminishes mental ability and heightens emotions. Then Spock realizes that, due to their service aboard Stratos, all disrupter leaders are no longer exposed to xenite emissions. Captain Kirk proposes that the Trogglytes be supplied with xenite masks.
Once the gas’s effect has worn off, Captain Kirk agrees to provide Vanna with masks and help the Trogglytes obtain equality in exchange for the euxenite, despite Plasus’s protests. Captain Kirk and Plasus drop charges against each other, and Captain Kirk and Spock return to the Enterprise with euxenite in hand.
Commentary
This episode revolves around a plague on Merrick II and the quest for Zenite on Ardana. The episode explores the stark societal divide between the cloud-dwelling elite and the troglodyte miners. The narrative highlights valuable lessons for compliance professionals about cultural sensitivity, understanding diverse perspectives, and adapting compliance programs to cultural contexts. Tom Fox emphasizes the importance of these aspects in creating an inclusive and ethical business environment. Additional fun facts, production details, and the importance of promoting cultural awareness are also discussed.
Key Highlights
- Story Synopsis
- Fun Facts and Production Insights
- Cultural Issues in Compliance
Resources
Excruciatingly Detailed Plot Summary by Eric W. Weisstein
