Consequences

by DoctorH

This is a follow-up to "Failure Analysis," but it's not a sequel (and it is much shorter). A Physics professor arrives on DS9 and proposes to conduct experiments on the wormhole. The equation that forms the basis for the experiments is so complicated that almost no one can understand the equation... or its consequences. Sisko must decide whether to allow the experiments to proceed.

13. Notes

Notes: The ability truly to see the future is in conflict with the notion of free will. Sisko believes he made informed choices of his own free will, but the Prophets see it as him having no choice at all. For a further exploration of this troubling question, study "Newcomb's Paradox" and decide for yourself what choice you would make.

I note also that there is an odd part of the story. It is said: "Vuldt's Equation predicts that it may be possible to travel anywhere in the universe in virtually no time at all, without energy-matter transportation. That is, it is possible for a material object to achieve near-infinite speed. Furthermore, the equation predicts that the energy cost of such speed is below what we now use to achieve warp five." After this story was written, "Star Trek: Discovery" premiered, in which one of the major aspects of the tale is that the ship CAN travel anywhere in the universe in virtually no time at all, without energy-matter transportation, exhibiting near-infinite speed.