Inhibition

"Inhibition" by James Causey is a mid-20th century science fiction story that examines the complexities of cultural growth and the repercussions of meddling in the evolution of new societies. The story centers around Saxon, a member of the Inhibition Corps, who is assigned to control the development of Eden XI, a newly inhabited planet. Saxon discovers the colonists possess advanced technology and a uniquely tranquil way of life, even though they appear primitive. It is revealed that the colonists are part of a larger, more advanced human civilization (Homo Superior) that has been observing them, Saxon is faced with a difficult moral choice. He is torn between his responsibility to follow orders and his growing connection to the colonists, especially a girl named Veena. In the end, he chooses to go against his orders, destroying his own ship in order to safeguard the colony, and the narrative reaches a poignant understanding of the potential for cooperation between cultures as Saxon reconciles with his purpose.