Nightflyers injects modern identity politics into casting and characterization, putting notable emphasis on gender and racial diversity. While not overbearing, the show occasionally spotlights these identities at the cost of more organic character development and chemistry. The narrative itself tries to balance classic sci-fi tension with a more 'inclusive' lens, sometimes stretching credibility for the sake of checking boxes.

The show tends to eschew traditional family or religious structure and largely sidelines masculinity for a more neutered, collective approach. While there’s no outright mockery, masculine and traditional elements are muted compared to the show's focus on trauma, victimhood, and modern sensibilities. There’s some science-as-religion subtext, but not an aggressive attack on foundational values.

Alternative worldviews rarely get sincere exploration, characters largely share similar, present-day social views despite being in a supposedly distant future. Traditional perspectives are either marginalized or filtered through the lens of dysfunction. There’s a surface-level gesture to complexity, but the message leans toward a one-note, progressive worldview.