Why Gene Roddenberry Set Star Trek in a Futuristic Setting

Gene Roddenberry's creation, Star Trek, is a beloved and enduring franchise that has captivated audiences for generations. However, many might wonder why he chose to set it in a future, scientific setting rather than in the present day. The reasons are multifaceted and deeply rooted in the cultural climate of the time and Roddenberry's own visionary outlook.

The Confluence of Society and Science

One of the primary reasons for Roddenberry's decision to set Star Trek in the future is the presence of significant scientific advancements. During the 1960s, when Star Trek was first conceived, the United States had limited experience with a robust space program, and the Moon landing was still a future event. If Roddenberry had pitched the series in the present, it would have been difficult to portray the spaceship voyages, interstellar diplomacy, and advanced technologies that are central to the series. A present-day setting would have felt anachronistic and less thrilling, limiting the potential to fully explore the "Star" aspect of his Trek.

The Censorship Context

Roddenberry faced significant censorship challenges with his previous series, The Lieutenant, a story about a marine officer dealing with racism and sexism. The network's sensitivity to controversial themes and content resulted in the show's cancellation. This experience highlighted the need for a setting where societal issues like race, class, and gender could be examined without immediate backlash. By setting Star Trek in the future, Roddenberry could explore these themes through the lens of advanced spaceships, alien civilizations, and futuristic societies, providing him with a platform to comment on human conditions without running afoul of censors.

A Humanist Vision for the Future

Roddenberry's personal beliefs as a humanist further influenced his choice to set the series in the future. He believed in a world where outdated concepts such as traditional marriage and religion could be questioned and potentially evolved. The futuristic setting allowed him to depict societies that had moved beyond these traditional values, providing a thought-provoking Mirror into human progress and potential. This vision was not only about advancing technology but also about the moral and social evolution of humanity.

The Impact of Future Setting on Narrative

The future setting of Star Trek also served as a backdrop for storytelling that went beyond mere sci-fi melodrama. It allowed Roddenberry to create narratives that were both science fiction and morality plays, making them more palatable for audiences and easier to get past oppressive networks and societal norms. This made it possible to address complex issues such as moral dilemmas, ethical decision-making, and the impact of technology on society without being directly critical of the present.

Conclusion

Gene Roddenberry's choice to set Star Trek in a futuristic context was a strategic move born out of a blend of practical considerations and visionary idealism. By choosing the future, he was able to explore profound societal issues, align with humanist ideals, and create a compelling narrative that has stood the test of time. The legacy of Star Trek continues to inspire and challenge us, reminding us of the potential for both human progress and ethical reflection in the future.