Dark Secrets Revealed: The Hidden Origins of Dr Bashir & Section 31 in Star Trek: DS9
Bashir's unwavering loyalty and moral compass shaped his journey on DS9 Discover how his complex friendship with Garak and an intriguing episode shed light on his refusal to join Star Trek's mysterious Section 31
Summary
Dr. Bashir's fascination with espionage and spy stories is a recurring theme in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, starting from the second episode "Past Prologue."
Bashir's initial interest in Garak stems from the latter's renowned reputation as a spy, enticing him to actively pursue opportunities to uncover more about him.
Although Bashir finds pleasure in assuming the role of a spy, he ultimately declines Section 31's employment proposal upon discovering their dubious methods and the harsh truths of espionage. Instead, he chooses to confine his spy fantasies to the realms of the holosuites.
The storyline involving Dr. Julian Bashir and Starfleet organization, Section 31, was established early on in Star Trek: Deep Space Nine. Bashir's genetic enhancements and his fondness for spy stories made him an ideal candidate for Section 31 during the Dominion War. His love for espionage is well-documented throughout DS9, particularly in the James Bond-inspired episode "Our Man Bashir" in season 4. However, Bashir's fascination with the world of spies dates back to "Past Prologue," the second-ever episode of DS9.
In addition to focusing on Major Kira Nerys' dark past, "Past Prologue" introduces Bashir to Garak, a Cardassian tailor known for his spy-like reputation. Although they eventually become close friends, Bashir's initial intrigue stems from Garak's ties to the world of espionage. When Garak enlists Bashir's help in uncovering the connection between Bajoran terrorist Tahna Los and Klingon sisters Lursa and B'Etor, it sets the stage for their later involvement with Star Trek's Section 31.
Garak And Bashir's Star Trek Friendship Set Up DS9's Section 31 Plot
After meeting Garak, Julian is excited about encountering "The Spy," much to Commander Benjamin Sisko's amusement. Rumors are circulating on the Promenade that Garak is sharing information about Deep Space Nine with Cardassia, but this turns out to be partly false as more details about Garak's backstory are revealed in subsequent episodes. Regardless, Bashir is intrigued by Garak and the possibility of him being a spy for Cardassia, which is why he continues to seek him out. Bashir sees this as an opportunity to live out his secret agent fantasy by getting close to Garak and uncovering more about the mysterious Cardassian tailor.
Later, when Garak suggests that Julian visit his store to purchase "a new suit," it is actually a way for Garak to relay information about Lursa and B'Etor to Starfleet. What's notable about this moment is Sisko's encouragement of Bashir to go along with Garak's plan. Sisko's support convinces Bashir to participate and ultimately save the wormhole from destruction at the hands of Tahna Los. Bashir's involvement in thwarting Tahna's scheme does not go unnoticed and becomes the first successful intelligence gathering that catches the attention of Luther Sloan.
Does DS9 Episode 2 Reveal Why Bashir Said No To Star Trek's Section 31?
Bashir's love for the spy role is apparent, but he has reservations about the actual tasks involved. He declines Section 31's offer due to their morally questionable methods, as well as his hesitation with spying on Lursa and B'Etor. From the beginning of Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, his discomfort with the realities of espionage is evident, making it clear that he would always refuse Sloan and Section 31. Instead, Bashir prefers to indulge in his spy fantasies within the holosuites, where there are no real-world repercussions.
