Character and training disposed him not to interfere in other mens's business. His job was to find out what they did, and his inclination was to let them go on doing it. He preferred to be enlightened, rather than to enlighten; to seek facts rather than the Truth. But even the most unmissionary soul, unless he pretend he has no emotions, is sometimes faced with a choice between commission and omission. What are they doing? abruptly becomes, What are we doing? and then, What must I do?

Section 5 - Hainish Cycle - The Word for World Is Forest (1972)