'Star Wars' vs. 'Star Trek': why can’t fans just get along?

To casual moviegoers, there is not much difference between “Star Trek,” the sci-fi franchise that launched on television in 1966, and "Star Wars,” which debuted on movie screens in 1977. “Star Trek” fans think “Trek” is better because it portrays a complex, science-based technological future where diverse species unite for the betterment of all. “Star Wars,” many believe, is a simple adventure with ray-guns and walking carpets, the good guy wears white, the bad guy wears black, and there’s a magic “Force.” “Star Wars” fans think “Star Wars” and “The Empire Strikes Back,” are "The Godfather" Part I and II of science fiction films – a perfect original followed by an equally great sequel.