Spock quotes you can apply to your driving

A scene from “Star Trek’s” “A Piece of the Action” episode when Spock and Kirk land on a planet stuck in the 1920s gangland era.

MANILA, Philippines–Leonard Nimoy, the actor, director and writer best known for his portrayal of Mr. Spock, the science officer on “Star Trek,” went to the great Katric Ark in the sky last week at the age of 83. He was essential to the success of the series, as the half-Vulcan, half-human  Mr. Spock who  acted as a foil to the human characters on board the USS Enterprise.

Vulcans, according to “Star Trek” lore, are a humanoid species who have chosen to follow reason above all else, sublimating emotions in the service of logic. That made them excellent scientists and administrators, but does that make them good at the human task of driving?

Let’s take a look at some of the wisdom that Nimoy dispensed over the years, mostly as his alter ego, Mr. Spock:

“Logic clearly dictates that the needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few.”

Remember this the next time you’re tempted to “counterflow” (perhaps a uniquely Filipino term), block an intersection or take two parking spaces. Traffic rules were created for the benefit of all motorists, and it’s highly illogical to consider yourself more important than everyone else simply because you’re running late for a date. (A bladder that’s about to burst may merit more consideration.)

Now, does this apply if you’re driving a bus with 50 persons on board trying to overtake a motorcycle, or a van carrying 12 approaching a crossing? It’s good to know that under Philippine law, the needs of the small (pedestrian, motorcycle) outweigh the needs of the powerful (four-wheeled vehicles).

“Gentlemen, there is one thing which requires the immediate attention of all of us. Specifically, our future. ”

Leonard Simon Nimoy (1931-2015) is best known for his role as Mr. Spock in the original “Star Trek” series.

Don’t get distracted by texting, browsing  the Internet or chatting while driving. Your main objective while on the driver’s seat is to safely reach your destination. There will be time to do everything else when you disembark from your own personal shuttlecraft or starship. Otherwise, you may not have a future to speak of.

“I had an opportunity to observe your counterparts here quite closely. They were brutal, savage, unprincipled, uncivilized, treacherous—in every way splendid examples of Homo sapiens, the very flower of humanity. I found them quite refreshing.”

“Captain, there is a thing that happens to Vulcans at this time, almost an insanity which you would no doubt find distasteful.”

Something unusual happens when humans get behind the wheel. Previously sane, logical beings suddenly become emotional and aggressive. With the anonymity and power granted to you as the captain of your own vessel, you might become as power-hungry and vengeful as Khan Noonien Singh. Don’t fall into that trap.

“The cessation of violence appears to have weakened it, Captain. I suggest that good spirits might make an effective weapon.”

“We disposed of emotion, Doctor. Where there is no emotion, there is no motive for violence.”

Adopt a Vulcan-like air of calm and control whenever you start a journey. Not only would they make excellent drivers, Vulcans, the ultimate “Icemen,” would likely be ideal Formula One drivers too. By not deciding emotionally, particularly angrily, you can reduce any penchant for reckless driving and road rage.

“I’m happy the affair is over. A most annoying emotional episode.”

“Even burned and cracked, they’re beautiful. Destroying them was a shame. ”

We all fall in love with a vehicle some time or another. You can enjoy it while it lasts, but keep in mind that cars do not last forever, or may cost too much to maintain at some point.

“Insufficient facts always invite danger.”

Know how to operate your car, particularly in dangerous or emergency situations. Enrolling in a good driving school such as the Honda Safety Driving School, or taking a Safety Skills for Life course at the Ford-Tuason Driving School will be a good way to learn proper driving habits and acquire necessary skills.

“Computers make excellent and efficient servants, but I have no wish to serve under them.”

Cars’ safety systems are there for a reason. Know how to properly use such active systems as antilock brakes and traction control. Again, a proper session at a driving school is the key to doing this.

The day of the driverless or autonomous-driving car is coming. Presently, some cars can already assist in parking or automatically maintain distance on the highway. These are indeed useful, but in the end, a human may be needed to turn off the switch and take over.

“Live long and prosper.”

You can only do both if you make it safely to your destination. Drive more like a Vulcan and you may achieve the emotional control you need. (All of this advice is not to be followed on track days.)