Pluribus' Sci-Fi Threat Is An Uncanny Update On A Terrifying Star Trek Villain

Published: Sunday, November 9, 2025 at 6:00 pm

New Sci-Fi Threat Mirrors Terrifying Collective Consciousness

A new science fiction narrative presents a chilling update on the concept of a collective consciousness, drawing parallels to a well-known villain from the *Star Trek* franchise. This new hive mind, referred to as "Pluribus," presents a unique and unsettling threat. Unlike the Borg, the "Pluribus" entity does not involve cyborgs. Instead, those who join the collective take on a uniform appearance, adding to the eerie nature of the transformation.

The communication style of "Pluribus" also differs significantly from the Borg. While the Borg are known for their brusque and dismissive pronouncements, the "Pluribus" hive is exceedingly polite and cheerful. Negative emotions are literally paralyzing to members of the collective. The infection spreads through acts of love, specifically kissing. Like the Borg, "Pluribus" believes itself to be a state of harmonious perfection.

The protagonist, Carol, finds herself as a dissenting voice, immune to the virus. She encounters others who share her immunity, but they are not necessarily eager to return to the previous state of affairs. The merging of minds has eliminated conflict and inequality, and with it, much of the world's pain.

The narrative suggests that "Pluribus" is less an imperious force and more akin to the Human Instrumentality concept from the anime *Neon Genesis Evangelion*. The only way to achieve peace is to break down the barriers between individuals. This contrasts with the depiction of unity in *Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood*, where such unity is portrayed as "a vortex of anguish." The story raises the question of whether the peace brought by the hive mind is worth the cost.

BNN's Perspective: The exploration of collective consciousness in this new narrative offers a compelling thought experiment. While the elimination of conflict and suffering is an appealing concept, the loss of individuality and the potential for forced conformity raise serious ethical questions. The story's success will depend on its ability to navigate these complex issues and offer a nuanced perspective on the trade-offs between individual freedom and collective harmony.

Keywords: Pluribus, hive mind, collective consciousness, science fiction, Borg, Star Trek, Carol, Neon Genesis Evangelion, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, peace, individuality, conformity, virus, infection, unity, conflict, inequality.

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