Why this episode? From the synopsis it sounds like the usual Luddite, A.I fear-based Sci-fi fair. What stands out is how the crew deals with the events. Kirk values his intuition and individuality, so of course the idea of being replaced with a computer is gutting. If you haven't seen much of the original series, and assume Kirk's nature from his pop culture caricature you might assume he throws a fit and fights against his new mechanical replacement. This is not so.

KIRK: You seem to enjoy trusting yourself to the computer.

SPOCK: Enjoy, Captain? No. I'm merely gratified to see Doctor Daystrom's new unit execute everything required of it in such a highly efficient manner. M-5 is another distinguished triumph for his career.

Kirk is a star fleet officer; he is trained in skepticism and science. He knows his intuitions are not enough data to form a position. Yes his values seem to conflict with sacrificing his autonomy. He knows however, that is not a sufficient argument. This is a great example of not only the quality of the vision of Star Trek, but of how much better written Star Trek is than most modern shows. It would have been so easy to make Spok the rational "Machines are good" Cat of the plot, and Kirk the "Humanity is the best" mouse. It does not fall for this trap.