Doctor Who Review: Into The Dalek - 7 Thoughts On A Fantastic Voyage

2. Choice And Consequences

The difference between a soldier and a slave is free will. When Gretchen chooses to sacrifice herself so that others might live she is breaking her programming. Humans may be hard-wired to survive but Gretchen overrides that instinct for the greater good. It must be a huge surprise when she wakes up to tea in a so-called heaven. Something tells me the mysterious Missy isn€™t an angel €“ well perhaps an avenging one. The Doctor gives the dalek the gift of free will but he doesn€™t like what the dalek chooses to do with it. But that€™s the thing about free will €“ it€™s out of any other person€™s control. The freedom to choose makes for a messy universe but it also engenders the potential for a better one. Is the Doctor a good man? Of course he isn€™t. He€™s not a bad man either. As Clara states, the important part is that he€™s trying to do the right thing. That€™s all any of us can do. Life isn€™t clear-cut.
Contributor
Contributor

Mary Ogle is the author and illustrator of “Orangeroof Zoo” a whimsical tale of magical realism told through the pages of a coloring book for adults. Working as a professional artist in the digital medium, Mary’s commissions have included everything from fine art to fan art, book cover design, illustration and book layout. Find more of Mary’s work at www.maryogle.com. Mary currently finds inspiration in the Ojai Valley, residing in a snug little cottage with a recalcitrant cat.