12 Genius Decisions By Star Trek Captains

Picard is one of the most clever officers Starfleet has ever produced. This entire list could consist of Picard's decisions. But, that would be boring. So, let’s focus on a decision he made in one of the most stressful, and trying moments of his career.

Along the Federation-Cardassian border, there existed a planet called Celtris III. Late in the 2360s Starfleet suspected the Cardassians of developing illegal weapons on this planet. So, they sent Picard on a covert mission to investigate. As it turns out the Cardassians had set a trap to capture Picard. The Cardassians want Picard for information on the defensives of a strategically important system. They catch him and begin torturing him.

What follows is a battle of will between Picard and his Cardassian torturer, Gul Madred. Madred subjects Picard to severe torture, trying to break his spirit, but Picard relents.

In a momentary lapse of judgment, Madred shares too much with Picard. Madred relays a story of his childhood when he was beaten up by a group of older boys. They stole his food, but he brags that they had to break his arm to do it.

His story is meant to prove his resolve to Picard. But, in an act of pure brilliance, Picard uses the information against his torturer.

He tells Madred that no matter how much pain he inflicts, Picard will only view him as a sad, scared little boy. While Madred still had physical power over Picard, it is clear at this point that the Cardassian has lost the battle of wills.