Prime Directive
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
The supreme law of Starfleet: absolutely prohibits interference with the development process of pre-warp civilizations (less advanced civilizations), even if done with good intentions (such as providing technology or rescuing from disasters), because interference would destroy their potential for natural evolution and cultural independence.
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
The ethical boundary of helping. In charity, poverty alleviation, or education, excessive "God's-eye view" intervention often creates dependency or cultural destruction. Maintaining the restraint of "non-interference" and respecting the other's right to make mistakes and grow at their own pace is the highest form of goodwill.
Anchor fast decisions
When multiple principles/values conflict, the 'meta-principle' or supreme standard to be obeyed first. The mechanism is the adjudicating position in the principle hierarchy.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/2Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prime_Directiveverified
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