Arguments for Canonicity:
* Created by Gene Roddenberry: TAS was directly overseen and approved by Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek, and aimed to stay true to the spirit of the original series.
* Official Continuity: For many years, TAS was considered canon by Paramount and writers on subsequent series often referenced or built upon elements from the animated series.
* Story Elements: TAS introduced many elements that were later adopted into the live-action series, including the Tribbles, the planet Vulcan, and certain characters like the Maquis.
Arguments against Canonicity:
* Different Tone and Style: The animation style and storytelling in TAS differed significantly from the live-action shows, sometimes leaning towards a more whimsical and comedic tone.
* Contradictions: Some elements in TAS contradict later canon, such as Spock's emotional control being more limited in the animated series.
* Inconsistencies: There were inconsistencies in technology and lore between TAS and subsequent live-action shows.
The Current Status:
While TAS has been treated as canon in the past, it has become increasingly accepted by Star Trek fans and even writers that TAS is not strictly canon. This is mainly due to the inconsistencies and the evolution of the Star Trek universe through later series and movies.
Here's how it's often viewed now:
* Loose Canon: TAS can be considered part of the Star Trek "universe" and can be enjoyed as a complementary piece of the overall narrative.
* Inspiration: Many elements of TAS are considered inspirational and influence subsequent canon, but not necessarily directly canonical.
Ultimately, the decision on whether to consider TAS canon is up to the individual viewer. It's a great series in its own right and offers a unique take on the Star Trek world.