What theory of constitutional interpretation does Captain Kirk subscribe to? Hat tip: Will Baude. Addendum: At the end of the film clip, Dr Spock  logically asks: “… but does our involvement here also constitute a violation of the Prime Directive?” (Note: The Prime Directive prohibits Starfleet personnel from interfering with the internal development of alien civilizations.) Captain Kirk, however, simply brushes off Spock’s question, arguing in essence that the ends of the mission justify the means. Is Kirk right? Whether or not he violated the Prime Directive, this particular episode of Star Trek raises a deep and difficult question about higher law.