All You Need to Know about Disability Is on Star Trek

High Praise from Charles Edmund Degeneffe, Ph.D., CRC, ACSW
San Diego State University

"Through its nearly 50 year history, the Star Trek franchise reflects trends, debates, and cultural beliefs of modern society. Through "All You Need to Know About Disability is On Star Trek" Dr. Ilana Lehmann demonstrates how this show addresses disability related content in its reflection of contemporary life. This book offers an innovative, creative, and compelling way to understand disability ethics, psychological adjustment, and different disability populations through the dialogue presented in Star Trek movies and television programs. Without reservation, I highly recommend this book."

"All You Need to Know About Disability is on Star Trek" leads the reader on a bold exploration of the future for people with disabilities as portrayed in Star Trek. Even though the connection between Star Trek and disability might not be readily apparent, Star Trek has frequently depicted many aspects of disability, chronic illness, and rehabilitation. In keeping with its message of hope, Star Trek usually portrays the role of the person with a disability in a positive light.

Dr. Lehmann weaves a tapestry where technology and science, together with humanity's struggles for social justice, create messages about disability. The management of conflicts, interpersonal relationships, and the difficulties in interactions with those alien to us in appearance, culture, and abilities are recurring themes in Star Trek. Each episode is multifaceted, and the messages conveyed are largely dependent on the perspective of the viewer.

The book spotlights messages about impairments as seen in Star Trek. Topics such as medical ethics, definitions of disability, quality of life, coping strategies, and various disabilities come alive with dialogue, expert analysis, and humor. This is Star Trek after all. In addition, interviews with key scriptwriters provide new information about the inspiration for writing episodes about disability and stigma as well as empowerment and inclusion. The opinions of fans with disabilities and their family members offer yet another unique lens through which to view Star Trek.