Star Trek: 10 Best Episodes Showcasing Female Empowerment

2. Twists Within Turns Within Twists To A Musical Beat

You know how it goes: your ship is stopped, the Devore Imperium arrive, you listen to some music, and the telepaths all go to jail. Typical Tuesday really, isn't it? Those who may have thought they knew where Counterpoint was headed were in for a shock - but only if they hadn't been paying attention.

There is an arrogance wafting from Inspector Kashyk that never quite lifts, despite his attempts at a ruse. Seeing him sitting in the Ready Room as he does should be enough to set up his downfall, though Captain Janeway's belief in the inherent goodness of people may serve as her downfall - but only to those people who fundamentally misunderstand her as a character.

Counterpoint was hardly the first time she had proved she wasn't one to mess with but, five years in, it was a timely reminder. Her cool demeanour as she turns the tables on the deceiving Devore is truly enjoyable to watch. She plays him carefully, weaving in enough honesty to make the ruse believable. Kashyk may have written her off as inferior to his detriment, while Janeway never underestimated him. 

Those closing moments of the episode depict a cool victory in the face of incensed foolishness.