Doctor Who and the Ethics of Alien Justice: Pitting Civilians Against Fugitives

In the Doctor Who episode Smith and Jones, the Doctor explains that if the Judoon find the alien they will kill everyone in the hospital. The reasoning behind this decision is clear: they do not believe that anyone in the hospital is involved in hiding the fugitive. This case brings to light the complex intersection between extraterrestrial law and human ethics, highlighting the dilemma that arises when laws are applied in a way that targets civilians to rescue a fugitive.

The Incident at St. Peter's Hospital

The episode begins with the Judoon, a powerful and rigidly lawful alien police force from Crucis, initiating a search for an escaped alien criminal named Brithomart Leaky, commonly known as Smith or Jones. The Judoon, with their impressive reputation and advanced weaponry, are relentless in their pursuit and have set their sights on St. Peter's Hospital as a potential hiding spot. Unbeknownst to the Judoon, the hospital is a safe haven and not actively involved in the fugitive's escape. The Doctor, recognizing the potential peril, devises a plan to save the patients from unnecessary harm while navigating the ethical conundrum.

The Logic of the Judoon

The Judoon's decision to spare no one in the hospital underscores a few key points related to extraterrestrial law. Firstly, their approach is based on the principle of zero tolerance where any suspicion or perceived threat is treated as a certainty. Their unwavering commitment to justice, no matter the cost, leads them to prioritize the capture of the fugitive at any expense. This strict adherence to their own ideals comes at the expense of human lives, disregarding the potential for innocent individuals to be caught in the crossfire.

Human Ethics and Moral Dilemmas

The moral dilemma in Smith and Jones forces viewers to confront the harsh realities of extraterrestrial law and human ethics. The situation in the hospital presents a clear conflict where human lives are at risk due to the actions of an alien policing force. On one hand, the Judoon are merely following their established protocols and, from their perspective, doing their duty. On the other hand, this approach disregards the safety and rights of innocent citizens, raising serious questions about the ethical implications of such measures.

Reinterpreting Extraterrestrial Laws for Human Society

The case of the Judoon at St. Peter's Hospital challenges us to consider how such laws are applied and interpreted. When alien laws clash with human values, the potential for conflict is high, leading to situations where civilians are caught in the crossfire. This raises the question of how these extraterrestrial laws can be reconciled with human rights and ethical standards. The episode Smith and Jones encourages us to think beyond the starship and explore the broader implications of extraterrestrial justice in a cohabited universe.

Conclusion

The episode Smith and Jones of Doctor Who not only entertains but also provokes thought about the intersection between extraterrestrial law and human ethics. The Judoon's unwavering commitment to their task, while admirable in their world, highlights the potential for conflict when such rigid laws are applied in a human context. This episode serves as a valuable discussion point for the balance between justice and compassion, reminding us of the complex nature of moral and legal challenges in a globalized universe.

Keywords: Doctor Who, Judoon, Extraterrestrial Law