Why is reproduction with an alien race a violation of the Prime Directive?

Question

What's so wrong with reproducing with another culture while serving with Starfleet?
And why would they send you to the brig for making hybrid children?

Answer 1

The introduction of new genetic material into a species can casue a number of problems. It could introduce genetic anomalies that would not normally be present in that species, it cold also make that species vulnerable to diseases that they would normally have an immunity to. In that wasy it would interfere with the normal development of that species and culture. Once it has been determined that the introduction of that new genetic material would NOT be a detriment to the overall makeup of the species, then the rule no longer applies, (hence humans marrying Klingons, Beta zoids, Orions, and the like). but with new races... more precautions and studies need to be made before such things can take place...

Someone has been watching Voyager haven't they?

Answer 2

Cuz, according to the Prime Directive, the crew is not allowed to interfere in the lives of the alien cultures they visit. (except of course when asked officially by the aliens themselves)

Mind you, the alien cultures who worked in Starfleet, WERE allowed to marry with, and have children by the humans on board. (and on earth)