Technological utopianism (often called techno-utopianism or technoutopianism) is any ideology (Links to an external site.) based on the premise that advances in science and technology could and should bring about a utopia (Links to an external site.), or at least help to fulfill one or another utopian ideal.

A techno-utopia is therefore an ideal society (Links to an external site.), in which laws, government, and social conditions are solely operating for the benefit and well-being of all its citizens, set in the near- or far-future (Links to an external site.), as advanced science and technology will allow these ideal living standards to exist; for example, post-scarcity (Links to an external site.), transformations in human nature (Links to an external site.), the avoidance or prevention of suffering and even the end of death (Links to an external site.). -- Wikipedia

The original Star Trek (known as TOS, for the Original Series), aired from 1966-1969. It presented a world in which technology had solved most of our fundamental problems, and there was no poverty or scarcity. The benevolent Federation, an interstellar governing body which includes people from various planets and diverse cultures, sends its starships out to explore "strange new worlds" but also does serve a military purpose against outside enemies such as the Klingons and Romulans. Technology like communicators, tricorders, advanced voice-driven computers, matter transporters, and of course, space travel were an important part of Star Trek's appeal.

Please also look at one of the sequel series. Over the years there have been a number of series set in the same world, including Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994), Star Trek: Deep Space Nine (1993-1999), and Star Trek; Voyager (1995-2001). Please choose one of these, or the current series Star Trek: Picard (2020) or the most recent (third) season of Star Trek: Discovery (2017-present). [Star Trek: Enterprise (2001-2005) and Star Trek: Discovery seasons 1 & 2 take place before TOS in the timeline, though they were made considerably later. That could be interesting, or confusing.]

For both series, consider the use of technology. As our own technology has evolved, whether in the 1990s or the present day, how has the technology of Star Trek evolved along with it? How has it led to technological utopia, or failed to live up to that promise?

Please note, for consistency, do not consider the movies or animated series. Most of the Star Trek series are available on multiple streaming sources, including Netflix. Discovery and Picard are available on CBS All Access.