'Doctor Bashir, I Presume?'
Season five, episode sixteen
As the issues raised in this episode are a very real possibility in real life, this is a nice episode exploring the ethics of it in a manner that isn't too 'preachy'. The episode sees Bashir being selected by Lewis Zimmerman (the creator of the Doctor in 'Star Trek: Voyager') to be a model for the Mach II version of the Emergency Medical Hologram. Bashir is initially flattered only for his pride to turn to horror when he realises Zimmerman intends to interview everyone close to him, including his estranged parents. It soon becomes clear that Bashir has ever reason to fear this intrusion as he and his family are hiding a rather dark secret.
It is fascinating to learn more of Bashir's background and see the character interact with his parents, especially his father who is so different from the staunch Starfleet doctor, as well as O'Brien. It was also a interesting to see secrets come spilling out on subject that is quite relevant in today's society (I won't say why in deference to those who haven't seen the episode yet). The acting in this episode from Alexander Siddig (who plays Bashir) and his supporting co-stars was top-notch and the story came together well. Definitely up there among DS9's best episodes.
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