02678cam a22003733u 4500 32724 UtSlPG 20260610133739.0 m cr n 260607r2010||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 PS Hoskins, Robert, 1933-1993 Feet of Clay Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2010 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Produced from If Worlds of Science Fiction February 1958. Release date is 2010-06-07 Produced by Greg Weeks, Graeme Mackreth and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net "Feet of Clay" by Phillip Hoskins is a science fiction novella written in the mid-20th century. The story explores themes of cultural misunderstanding and the consequences of crossing alien boundaries, focusing on a human medic who attempts to help a foreign civilization in dire need. The narrative examines how the protagonist’s well-intentioned actions inadvertently complicate the relationship between his own species and the local aliens, illustrating the challenges of interstellar diplomacy and ethical medical practices. The plot revolves around Dillon, an employee of Extrasol Traders, stationed on the alien planet of Kash. As a series of medical emergencies arise due to the absence of the local priest, Dillon steps in to use his Earthly knowledge and supplies, leading the natives to view him as a god-like figure. Initially successful, he quickly finds himself in a precarious position when a local's death undermines his standing as a miracle worker. The situation escalates into a conflict between Dillon's actions and the authority of the priesthood, culminating in a dramatic confrontation over cultural beliefs and the consequences of his meddling in their society. Ultimately, the story offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of faith, power dynamics, and the ethical dilemmas faced when one tries to provide help in a context they do not fully understand. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Science fiction Short stories Extraterrestrial beings -- Fiction Human-alien encounters -- Fiction Orban, Paul, 1896-1974 Produced from If Worlds of Science Fiction February 1958. https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/32724 73570 73570