I always figured Star Trek for modern opera set in space. Their technology really isn't central to most of the plots, it's just a convenient backdrop for a morality tale. Contrast this with Niven's work, where the technology IS most of the story, and the people spend most of their time discovering the unexpected twists that technology makes possible.

I just knew this would happen.

Don't know if you like science fiction, but you should take a look at 'Snatch Me Another' by Mercurio D. Rivera http://www.abyssandapex.com/200801-snatch.html