>There's also the small fact that, if the United Federation of Planets
>attempted to impose mechanoid servitude laws on, say, the Cyben, the
>Cyben would wipe out all organic life in the galaxy just to make plain
>their lack of amusement.

From years ago in the UFP Diplomatic Corps, as Ambassador Dimwitty is being briefed by his adjutant, Jaime Retief:

"Sir, we just received word from the Cyben on that whole 'you belong to us' statement."
"And?"
"This is the response. <thump>"
"...that's the remains of the ambassador?"
"No, sir, that's the remains of the ambassadorial FLEET. Oh, and I've been asked to inform you that Optimus Prime has scheduled a meeting for you for later. And I'm taking a long lunch."
"How long?"
"It depends on whether you actually think you have a chance against Optimus Prime in direct combat I think I'll be back at 1:05 instead of 1 PM as usual, to give the cleaning staff time to mop you up. Sir. I left a copy of your will and a funeral checklist brochure on your desk. I'd like to say it was nice working with you, but I do so hate to lie."

--
Geoff Depew - Mephron
Haberdasher to Androids, Malakite of Tech Support Professionals