Sheppard and McKay think they're playing a simulation game where they build competing societies. Over the last two years, both societies have taken on the philosophies and worldviews of the "players." McKay's society has been focused on technological and intellectual development. Sheppard's society has been focused on military strength.
The differences between the two turn out to be real--they've been directing the growth of two real societies, and the two societies are close to open warfare.
The conflict mirrors the constant back-and-forth between McKay and Sheppard. Sheppard always approaches problems and opportunities from a military perspective while McKay always approaches the same from a technological perspective. Both approaches have merits, but both also have problems. You can see this in how the two leaders of the opposing societies sound like echoes of McKay and Sheppard.
The real treat in this episode is Dr. Weir playing the role of a stern Mom trying to get obstinate brothers to get along.
The differences between the two turn out to be real--they've been directing the growth of two real societies, and the two societies are close to open warfare.
The conflict mirrors the constant back-and-forth between McKay and Sheppard. Sheppard always approaches problems and opportunities from a military perspective while McKay always approaches the same from a technological perspective. Both approaches have merits, but both also have problems. You can see this in how the two leaders of the opposing societies sound like echoes of McKay and Sheppard.
The real treat in this episode is Dr. Weir playing the role of a stern Mom trying to get obstinate brothers to get along.