"Beyond Lies the Wub" is a short science fiction story written by Philip K. Dick. The plot centers around a group of space travelers who encounter a peculiar creature known as the Wub, which is a large, intelligent pig-like being. Initially, the crew is fascinated by the Wub's intelligence and ability to communicate, but their attitudes quickly shift as they consider it a potential source of food. Tension arises among the crew as they grapple with their moral dilemmas regarding the creature's fate.
The story explores themes of empathy, exploitation, and the consequences of human greed. As the crew debates the ethics of consuming the Wub, they are forced to confront their own prejudices and assumptions about sentient beings. The Wub, demonstrating profound understanding and an ancient wisdom, challenges the crew's perspectives, leading to a poignant commentary on the nature of life and the moral implications of decisions made in the name of survival.