Interesting argument in the form of discussion between Kirk and Bones over drinks.
It’s neat to see established characters discussing something we consider a given, but there’s nothing esoteric about it. Star Trek as a franchise has always been bald-faced about what the Kobayashi Maru test is and why every cadet has to take it.
“How we face death is at least as important as how we face life.” - Admiral Kirk, Wrath of Khan
“Furthermore, you have failed to divine the purpose of the test.”
“Enlighten me again.”
“The purpose is to experience fear - fear in the face of certain death. To accept that fear and maintain control of oneself and one’s crew. This is a quality expected in every Starfleet Captain” - Spock and Kirk, Star Trek 2009
Starfleet learns two important things about each officer-in-training during this test. Whether or not they choose to ignore standing orders and face certain destruction to do the right thing, and how well they handle it when that gamble causes them and everyone they are responsible for to lose.
I imagine stuff like that ends up in every officer’s permanent record. I imagine it determines if Ensign Skippy goes on to command a first-contact vessel carrying the banner of the Federation or a patrol ship in Sol Sector… or be a Captain at all.
This is the best kind of Trek right here. I could see Kirk saying this, for sure. I do think Bikes would agree with Kirk, though. McCoy always prioritized saving lives.
That said, this double dumbass should have known that Kirk has never heard the word ‘bullshit’ in his life.
So… I’d go ahead and say that Kirk here is wrong.
The simulation isn’t about teaching starfleet prospective officers anything. a single “This is stupid but we have to go through it,” simulation going to convince anything of any one or “teach” all the bullshit they say it does.
The real point of the exercise is that it’s a filter. Remember, the crew performance is observed. People are watching. This scenario and exercise is mandatory for all star fleet cadets because they’re looking for people that never get involved in the first place. Or are willing to follow orders or “greater good” bullshit.
Kirk was likely noticed for being extremely determined and a certain disregard for stupid rules. It also sets him up for being passed over on the seedier side of starfleet because, interestingly, that certain disregard for stupid rules comes from his integrity… which… is why Kirk was involved in episodes like Private Little War. (despite maybe not being “inside” he was still considered “useful” enough when he was in a convnient place?)
This is a rampant fan theory, sure, but section 31 would have to recruit from somewhere, and the academy is a wonderful place for that. Slipping a few exercises to see how cadets respond is… well, it’d be more surprising if they didn’t.
