Watched Doctor Bashir, I Presume again and what we really don’t talk about enough is how the triumphant end of the episode is just Richard Bashir reasserting his control over his great legacy.

Everything about the enhancements is completely out of Julian’s control - from having them in the first place to keeping the secret. When it’s finally revealed, he decides to take control of the situation for the first time by resigning from the ‘Fleet before they can kick him out. Richard is completely against this plan, and once again overrides Julian’s choice in the matter by giving himself up. Julian’s options are again limited and he’s expected to be thankful for this great sacrifice from Richard.

But, of course, all of this is Richard’s (and Amsha’s) fault in the first place. He keeps making choices for Julian - genetic engineering, convincing him to become a doctor, going to a penal colony - and any time Julian tries to assert his autonomy Richard throws all of that right back in his face. Oh, you’re too smart for us, aren’t you, with your enhanced brain and your fancy education, as if Richard himself didn’t encourage those things. As if Richard doesn’t want Julian to make great discoveries, to carry on the Bashir name, to become immortal.

Ultimately, Richard giving himself up isn’t a redemption or an example of real paternal love. He’s not trying to make up for his mistakes. He’s just another shitty father grasping at one last chance to manipulate his kid. He's an architect making sure that his greatest creation doesn't collapse in on itself.