Would Quark from Star Trek Have Respected Gordon Gekko?
This question has sparked quite a debate on Quora, with numerous opinions ranging from respect to disdain. The idea itself is intriguing, combining two iconic characters from vastly different worlds: Quark from the Star Trek: Deep Space Nine and Gordon Gekko from Wall Street. Let's delve into the reasons why Quark might or might not respect Gekko.
Alignment of Values and Actions
Yes and no. “Yes” for what he did “no” for getting caught. This response indicates a mix of respect for Gekko's success and disdain for the consequences of that success. Quark, being a skilled businessman and a shrewd Ferengi, might appreciate Gekko's daring and success, but also likely disapprove of the breaking of rules and laws. However, as an avowed profit-driven individual, Quark is acutely aware that such actions would lead to dire consequences. If Gekko could run a successful business without getting caught, Quark would certainly respect him.
Sure. He would thought the criminal charges Gekko eventually faced to be unreasonable interference in perfectly reasonable business practices. Quark, as a profit-driven Ferengi, would recognize that Gekko's actions were driven by pure business ethics, at least as understood by Ferengi. The criminal charges against Gekko would seem to Quark as unreasonable government interference in business.
Quark's Character vs. Gekko's Moral Code
Absolutely they are two of a kind. This perspective highlights the similarities between Quark and Gekko in terms of their business acumen and morals. Both were willing to push boundaries and do what needed to be done to succeed. Quark's character in several episodes demonstrated a respect for the rules of their society, but also an ethics that prioritized his own profit. This could make Quark both impressed and slightly wary of Gekko.
No one respects Gekko. This observation suggests a cultural perception of Gekko in the broader context, where respect for such cutthroat business practices is not universally shared. Quark, while perhaps impressed by Gekko's success, would be unlikely to have widespread respect for someone who broke the law and societal norms.
Quark's Moral Core and Personal Honour
Nope, at least the Ferengi have a moral code and know when to draw the line in terms of greed. Gekko on the other hand was the opposite. Quark's Ferengi background, with its emphasis on profit and rules, would likely make him draw a significant line between himself and Gekko. Quark's episodes frequently showcased his honorable behavior, despite his generally amoral persona. He would likely see Gekko's actions as a disregard for any moral code, which Quark values (even if only for his own profit).
No. He was played by Armin Shimerman. Gordon Gekko was played by Michael Douglas. This is a factual correction, clarifying the actors who portrayed the characters. Regardless, this doesn't impact the broader discussion of whether Quark would respect Gekko.
I think he would have despised him. Quark beneath the Ferengi tropes had a solid moral core and a profound sense of personal honour. Look at the episode where he excoriates Ramak for being part of the Resistance calls him an idea but kisses him and says that he’s his idiot. Quark's belief in following the Rules of Acquisition, while often misunderstood as purely profit-driven, also includes a sense of honor and responsibility. His unwavering support for Dax in Ramak's Vengeance shows he values loyalty and, although he might not have the same morals as Gekko, he definitely respects those who stick to their principles. Quark would be insulted by Gekko's disregard for any sort of moral code.
Or look at how Odo’s opinion was important to him in the finale. Quark was not just a profit-driven individual but also valued the opinions of those he respected and deemed them worthwhile. His admiration and respect for Odo in the finale further highlight his complex moral character. Quark would be highly unlikely to respect Gekko, given the latter's ruthless and lawless approach to business.
Conclusion
He'd view Gordon Gekko as an amateur in comparison to most Ferengi who did business, yes he was aggressive but he’d been in trouble if he broke any Rules of Acquisition. He’d have more respect for Jordan Belfort, The Wolf of Wall Street, because that guy started at the very bottom and swindled his way to the top, but he would be considered as close to a Ferengi as possible because he was good at avoiding trouble for as long as possible, even ended up teaching his skills to this day. Quark's respect would likely be more for someone like Belfort, who managed to navigate the moral and ethical complexities of business successfully without crossing the line completely. Belfort is seen as a more nuanced and skilled version of a business traitor, which Quark would appreciate more than Gekko's blatant disregard for the rules.
While Quark would be intrigued by Gekko's success, his belief in the rules and ethical boundaries would ultimately render him incapable of respecting someone who operates outside of those norms. Quark might recognize Gekko's skills but would be unlikely to see him as a role model or someone to respect in a truly moral sense.