A Case of Conscience

About “A Case of Conscience”

A Case of Conscience is a 1958 novel by James Blish that won a Hugo Award. The story follows Father Ramon Ruiz-Sanchez, who visits the planet Lithia, home to a highly ethical society. The Lithians lack literature, art, and recreation, but also lack greed, envy, lust, and other human vices. They have no original sin and live in a morally perfect world. This raises theological questions about whether God is necessary for morality. The story explores whether the Lithians' perfection is natural or the work of an evil force. A young Lithian, Egtverchi, raised on Earth, plays a key role. The novel examines complex ethical and religious issues, challenging the protagonist's beliefs. It is a concise but thought-provoking science fiction story.