The most-prominent theme in "Justice" was perhaps the question of "Does the end justify the means?" Rush argued in Young's defense that Sgt. Spencer was an undermining force on Destiny, and that his death greatly improved their ability to survive. Thus, were Young the one responsible, the killing can be viewed in a less-monstrous way, as this far out in the galaxy, the crew must do whatever it has to in order to keep going at full efficiency.
Later on, Rush used the same defense for his own actions, arguing that removing Young from command of the ship was a necessary step to ensure the full potential of Destiny was realized. Framing the Colonel for murder was ultimately for the "greater good," as Young (in Rush's mind) is not a leader well-suited to this kind of mission, where the hard choices must be made without hesitation. In retaliation, Young essentially applies the same argument to Rush's life, stranding him on an alien world for the "greater good."
So what do you all think; does the end justify the means in a situation like this? Had Spencer's death been a murder, would it have been justified? Was attempting to oust Young from command, given his leadership style, within limits for the greater good? Did Young's decision to maroon Rush to preserve cohesion on the ship step out of line?
Later on, Rush used the same defense for his own actions, arguing that removing Young from command of the ship was a necessary step to ensure the full potential of Destiny was realized. Framing the Colonel for murder was ultimately for the "greater good," as Young (in Rush's mind) is not a leader well-suited to this kind of mission, where the hard choices must be made without hesitation. In retaliation, Young essentially applies the same argument to Rush's life, stranding him on an alien world for the "greater good."
So what do you all think; does the end justify the means in a situation like this? Had Spencer's death been a murder, would it have been justified? Was attempting to oust Young from command, given his leadership style, within limits for the greater good? Did Young's decision to maroon Rush to preserve cohesion on the ship step out of line?
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