Yeah, and I thought TMP was controversial. ;)

Excellent point about Kirk not having a strong father figure early in his life. Pike seems to have become his father figure now.

I do agree the KM hack should have been less obvious. The bridge simulator should have also been more immersive ala Star Trek II. They could at least darken the control room windows during the actual test! How can anybody concentrate when you can see the instructors watching you from a brightly room on high?

Maybe some fanedit can address that...