Little Fuzzy - H. Beam Piper

On the distant planet Zarathustra, a prospector discovers small, intelligent, and endearing creatures dubbed “Fuzzies.” Their existence challenges the planet’s corporate rulers, who stand to lose their monopoly if the Fuzzies are proven sentient. As debates over morality, greed, and recognition unfold, a fierce legal and ethical battle ensues. The story explores humanity’s capacity for empathy and the meaning of true civilization.