What is the legacy of Star Trek?

[Theunicornhunter 2]

I think we're all aware that Star Trek is a cultural phenomenon and had some major influence on the entertainment industry. I think I read it is credited with giving rise the fan convention phenomena.

 

I think sometimes we think that TOS was the only show of its time to address contemporary social issues because that's what we hear so much...but it wasn't - but it did have the advantage of a highly fictionalized setting in which to do it.

 

But do you think ST really changed anything other than providing an outlet for those who look for a better world than what we have?

 

If so what do you think it has directly influenced and why? And by this I mean something that likely wouldn't have happened or not happened nearly so soon if not for Star Trek?