A Case of Conscience

Historical Context and Significance

«A Case of Conscience» by James Blish, published in 1958, is one of the key works in the science fiction genre. The book explores themes of religion, ethics, and contact with alien civilizations. It won the Hugo Award for Best Novel in 1959 and significantly influenced the development of the genre by raising complex questions about the nature of faith and morality in the context of scientific discoveries and interstellar travel. The novel also examines the conflict between science and religion, making it an important cultural artifact reflecting the intellectual debates of the mid-20th century.