Picard, as noted, was a listener. He made quick and confident command decisions in moments of crisis but was always careful to keep an open ear and to trust the people around him. Picard was never arrogant, and always considered new information and points of view. When he failed to consider something, he always acknowledged any shortsightedness. Stewart seems to have taken those lessons to heart. Looking back over the character, Stewart was thoughtful, saying:
“I have learned from him … how to listen. You may know exactly what your thoughts are, what you want to do with them, what you believe in, but if someone feels differently, hear them. Hear them out. Listen to everything that they have to say. And learn.”
Which is the very spirit of “Star Trek,” really. It takes place in an egalitarian, multicultural world wherein all species and cultures coexist peacefully. This comes from listening and considering and providing an intelligent response. “Star Trek” may contain strong-willed people, but the show’s overall philosophical ethos is about considering the wills of others.
Stewart even noted that his ability to listen began to extend into his professional acting habits. In his early career, Stewart was rarely one to improvise. Now he is, even having joined a notable improv troupe:
“A couple of years ago I began experimenting with improvisation. I’ve never done it before. And I’ve come to love it, working with a company called Improvised Shakespeare Company. And the very first and important thing they ever said to me was the secret about improvisation is listening to everything that’s said. And then you become part of the pattern, of the picture of dialogue.”
Stewart finally learned the glories of “Yes, and.”
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