The Way to Eden
A group of young people rejecting Federation technology overtake the Enterprise Their goal: find Eden, a mythical planet where they intend to live.
What's unfortunate is that the premise offered such potential. In the highly advanced and artificial 23rd century, the development of "return to nature" movements seems probable. Forcing Kirk, with his love-hate relationship to Starfleet, to confront a group of intelligent and determined activists would be wonderful to see. Sadly these "space hippies" are flakes, if not totally insane then at least quirky. They're prone to annoying songs (there is satisfaction hitting "mute" during Adam's numbers), silly slang, and incomprehensible philosophizing. Clearly they lack Kirk's instinct that "paradise planets" never are. Thankfully the poison kills the two most irritating hippies. Certainly among the most embarrassing episodes.
Spock Saves the Day: Interaction possibly delays the takeover, however . . .
Oops: Consorting with space hippies is not dignified. Nor is helping them find their planet, "jamming", or exchanging bizarre greetings. Also, there are times hypersensitive hearing is not to one's advantage.
Developments: Nothing positive to note. Spock's beliefs in tolerance and diversity can go too far, to the point where he puts the needs of those with "alternative" beliefs ahead of his ship's. At least Kirk offers a reconciliation with: " We reach, Mr. Spock." They've swung him too.