IDIC

File:VulcanIDIC.jpg

Vulcan IDIC

The Vulcan IDIC is an abbreviation for Infinite Diversity in Infinite Combinations, the name of a prestigious Vulcan award of merit, celebrating the Vulcans' embrace of cultural and racial diversity. It is the most revered of all Vulcan symbols. This appears to be hypocritical as Vulcans shun even those within their own society who do not adhere to the strict teachings of Surak and purge themselves of all emotion. Although Vulcans claim to embrace diversity, there appears to be no room for "infinite diversity" within their society.

In 2154, T'Les smuggled a holographic map to her daughter T'Pol inside an IDIC medallion pendant. (ENT: "The Forge")

On formal occasions, Spock wore his IDIC medallion (in pin form) as part of his dress uniform. During a dinner function aboard the Enterprise, Dr. Miranda Jones had noticed Spock's Vulcan IDIC pin on his dress uniform. She inquired if it was to serve as a reminder to Jones that as a Vulcan, Spock can mind-link with the Medusans far better than she could. Spock noted, on the contrary, that he donned it to honor Dr. Jones and her achievements. (TOS: "Is There in Truth No Beauty?")

Vulcan IDIC pins were considered collectible merchandise in the retail markets of the 24th Century, not easily acquired in the Bajor sector. In late 2370, Quark listed Vulcan IDIC pins as plausible items that he could sell over the monitors on board of Deep Space 9 if given permission by Commander Benjamin Sisko. Including IDIC pins, other collectibles Quark listed that he could sell at a significant discount included Andorian jewelry and Bolian crystalsteel. (DS9: "The Jem'Hadar")

The Vulcan term for IDIC is Kol-Ut-Shan. (VOY: "Gravity")

The invention of the IDIC by Gene Roddenberry was rumored to have caused friction between he and Leonard Nimoy, who saw it as a cheap ploy to sell replica merchandise to fans.