SDS9 – S5E7: "Let He Who Is Without Sin..."

·35 min·3 clips

Scott and Sam analyze why a fan-favorite Star Trek character's reactionary behavior sparks a heated debate on the left about reaching or abandoning such people.

Scott and Sam introduce the episode as part of Southpaw Deep Space Nine Season 5, noting its availability on Patreon or Substack. They summarize the plot: Worf and Jadzia Dax visit Risa, where Worf's jealousy and discomfort with hedonism clash with Jadzia's carefree attitude, while the New Essentialists led by Pascal Fullerton protest moral decline. The hosts mention that critics consider this one of the worst DS9 episodes due to its failed romantic comedy tone and perceived inconsistency in Worf's character. They argue that Worf's reactionary tendencies are not new, citing his past actions like crossing a picket line. This leads to a debate on the left about whether to reach out to or cut off reactionary individuals, referencing figures like Jordan Peterson and Joe Rogan. Scott shares his personal evolution from avoiding Peterson fans to understanding the need for engagement after moving to Maryland and interacting with working-class people. Sam discusses the importance of broad coalitions in movements like Palestine solidarity and local organizing, using examples from Flint's water crisis and environmental justice in California. They analyze Fullerton as a symbol of fear-mongering that resonates across Western politics, from right-wing figures to Democratic politicians and even some radicals. The hosts reflect on how the episode, while not great television, prompts valuable conversations about real-life political dynamics. Scott rates it three stars, appreciating its exploration of Worf's complexities and the slow build of side characters like Rom. They conclude by teasing the next episode on time travel.

As heard by us

A Risa jealousy story opens into a sharp discussion of Worf, politics, and collective power.

Southpaw uses its trip to Risa to turn jealousy, sexual boundaries, and Worf's rigid sense of honor into a wider political conversation. Worf's unease around Jadzia's ex-lover Bode gives the episode its first real spark, but the discussion is just as attentive to Rom's gradual…

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Why you'd press play

You get a pleasure planet, jealous Worf, and a leftist argument about what to do with the Worfs of the world.

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