Synopsis
The Psychotechnic Foundation has been studying a planet that it hopes will provide the key to ending the static state of the Empire, a planet that has not had a war in centuries. But the Empire fears this planet and sends a General to determine if the planet is a threat.
History
First publication: Astounding Science Fiction, December 1948
Review
A really well-done novelette. The story will be frustrating for modern readers because it is tell, not show. The story is almost entirely a dialog between two characters about history and genius. But it is well done. Many ways that I think this is in response to Asimov’s Foundation—a stagnating galactic empire, the Psychotechnic Foundation establishing experiments hoping to reinvigorate human history, the Foundation being focused on the psychology of history. It is just too close not to see that Anderson is likely trying to recast Asimov’s story in a mold that Anderson probably thought was more likely. An excellent story and recommended.
Videos
We have the story in these editions:
The Collected Short Works of Poul Anderson Volume 1: Call Me Joe, hardcover, NESFA Press, 2009-03-11
Astounding Science Fiction, December 1948, edited by John W. Campbell, Jr., magazine, Street & Smith, 1948-12-00
