The K-Factor

The K-Factor is a science fiction novel by Harry Harrison, written in the early 1960s, that explores the concept of 'Societics,' a science aimed at understanding and controlling human society, particularly in relation to war. The story follows Neel Sidorak and his assistant Adao Costa as they investigate the unstable conditions on the planet Himmel, where a positive 'k-factor' signals an impending conflict. As they uncover a plot involving their colleagues, the protagonists face moral dilemmas about the use of violence for peace, leading to a dramatic climax that examines the ethical implications of their actions.