How we cite our quotes: All quotations are from Star Trek III: The Search for Spock.
Quote #1
MORROW: That is out of the question.
KIRK: May I ask why?
MORROW: In your absence, Genesis has become a galactic controversy. Until the Federation Council makes policy, you are all under orders not to discuss with anyone your knowledge of Genesis. Consider it a quarantined planet and a forbidden subject.
Exploration is at the heart of the conflict between Kirk and his superiors. Kirk wants to explore the issues of Genesis and how it relates to Spock, but Admiral Morrow wants the subject dropped and buried. Why? Politics and public opinion, the two great knowledge killers.
Quote #2
ESTEBAN: Oh, no, you don't. Regulations specifically state, "Nothing shall be beamed aboard until danger of contamination has been eliminated."
SAAVIK: Captain, the logical alternative is obvious. Beaming down to the surface is permitted.
ESTEBAN: If the Captain decides that the mission is vital and reasonably free of danger.
DAVID: Captain, please, we'll take the risk, but we've got to find out what it is.
SAAVIK: Or who.
But the conflict between exploration and regulation isn't limited to Kirk's story. We see it again here. Saavik and David want to explore the planet, but Captain Esteban is a by-the-books type. Judging by how many potentially contaminated things were haphazardly beamed aboard in the Original Series, we're guessing the rule book was recently revised.
Quote #3
MORROW: Now wait a minute. This business about Spock and McCoy, honestly, I never understood Vulcan mysticism.
KIRK: You don't have to believe, I'm not even sure that I believe, but if there's even a chance that Spock has an eternal soul, then it's my responsibility.
Star Trek typically limits its exploration to the physical universe. After all, would anything feel more out of place in Star Trek than a séance with shaking tables and gullible patrons? Yet, The Search for Spock breaks this mold and explores issues of a more spiritual nature.