In "Redshirts" by John Scalzi, a character named Dahl recalls a lesson from Jenkins regarding the Intrepid's inertial dampeners. These dampeners are designed to provide stability, allowing the ship to perform intricate maneuvers without any noticeable effect on its crew during normal operations. However, during moments of crisis, the dampeners fail to function as effectively, leading to a loss of footing for those on board.

This observation highlights the tension between the ship's technological capabilities and the unpredictability of emergency situations. It serves as a metaphor for how equipment that typically ensures safety and comfort can become unreliable when most needed, reflecting the chaotic nature of life in unpredictable circumstances.