Well, that's just it. There are other stellar civilizations out there that don't have a directive like that. The Borg, the Romulans, the Cardassians...but that's what sets Starfleet and the Federation apart.

[He'd continue, but stops...when...uh...]

What are you...Whoa!

[Even hearing it in his head, Geordi can't help but speak out loud...]

Why are you a giant mechanical lion?