Okay now you've got me started...forgive me if this needs a new thread , but..
I had always thought that Starfleet was in many ways based on the U.S. Navy, in terms of rank, chain of command, etc. etc.
I have never served in the military, so I do not know first hand exactly how promotions work, but I do know from my experience in the work force that people are usually promoted to higher positions (I said usually!) because they have paid their dues with a given organization, have proven the ability to handle more responsibility, have undergone the pre-requisite training, and so forth
I am not whining about Kirk's quick transition from cadet to Captain, that really didn't bother me...it just seems that, in the real world, if a First Officer were to demonstrate exceptional bravery, and maybe even save their ship, they would no doubt be commended, probably get a medal or some other honor, and certainly they may be considered a potential candidate for promotion, but I don't think they'd just automatically rise up through the ranks...yet it seems that in this new Trek, Pike demonstrates bravery, is tortured, escapes, and comes home and is automatically promoted to admiral...ditto with Kirk...
I guess my real question then is that does this indicate that Starfleet uses a different system for promoting officers? Seems the more logical approach is to base promotion on merit (time served, proven ability)...Kirk certainly saved the day, but he isn't quite even out of school yet so to speak...wouldnt he need to undergo some more training?
Just a question...