the show should be progressively moving us towards the optimistic everyday exploration of the unknown.
Maybe... I agree, that to be a success we need an optimistic humanist ending to DISCO, but I really think part of the hang up some folks are having... and I know I was having is that typical 3 act trek episode formula where act sets up the situation, act 2 has some type of conflict to overcome, and act 3 is a successful resolution of the issue/conflict etc. DISCO is not following that formula and I think it makes it feel more dystopic.
I find there is a lot to like... DISCO uniforms are my 2nd fav.. right behind TWOK... the Tech is fun while still respectful to TOS.
Lorca, Cornwell, Stamets, and Saru are all great characters IMO... I find Tilly a bit too neurotic I guess...
Oh and my final analysis on including Mudd in the series is it was base pandering to longtime fans... and I think it fell flat... at least with this fan... the setup was weak and lazy and Mudds big episode really did nothing to move the overall story forward... and even if it were necessary to the story... it could have been done with a new character.