machines are sentient and refusing to allow them to be forced to die for others. After some negotiating, Data allows the Exocomps to be used but only if they are given the choice to go. The Exocomps show their intent to proceed and are beamed to the fountain. The units configure themselves such that they not only allow Picard and La Forge to be rescued, but for all but one of the Exocomps to return to the Enterprise, the last one sacrificing itself for this purpose. As the damage to the fountain is repaired, Dr. Farallon admits she is still not sure if the Exocomps are sentient but promises not to abuse them again. Data explains to Picard that he had to stand up for the Exocomps, just as Picard had stood up for him when his own sentience was questioned. Picard acknowledges that Data's actions were probably the most human thing he has ever done. Reception In 2011, this episode was noted by Forbes as one of the top ten episodes of the franchise that explores the implications of advanced technology. They compared the episode to an earlier episode "Evolution" noting the discussions between the character Data and others. They also note the idea of a computerized tool that can solve problems using software. In 2011, The A.V. Club rated this episode a "B+" and praised the exploration of the character of Data. Keith DeCandido of Tor.com gave the episode 3 out of 10, saying "it fails to address its issues as well as it should, and it completely fails as drama." Releases The episode was released as part of the Star Trek: The Next Generation season six DVD box set in the United States on December 3, 2002. A remastered HD version was released on Blu-ray optical disc, on June 24, 2014. References External links Star Trek: The Next Generation (season 6) episodes 1992 American television episodes Television episodes about artificial intelligence Television episodes directed by Jonathan Frakes