TL;DR
Foundation is a science fiction classic that follows the decline of a vast Galactic Empire and the efforts of a psychohistorical organization to shorten the dark ages and preserve knowledge for future generations. The story spans centuries and galaxies, exploring themes of science, religion, sociology, and political power.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Isaac Asimov was a prolific author and scientist, best known for his science fiction works. He held a PhD in biochemistry and wrote or edited over 500 books, including the Foundation series, the Robot series, and the Galactic Empire series. Asimov’s writing is characterized by its clear, logical style and its focus on scientific and sociological themes.
Key Takeaways
Psychohistory
Asimov’s fictional science of predicting the future course of human history through mathematical analysis of social and economic trends. Hari Seldon, the founder of psychohistory, predicts the fall of the Galactic Empire and establishes the Foundation to preserve knowledge and shorten the dark ages.
The Foundation
A group of scientists and scholars established on the remote planet Terminus, tasked with creating an Encyclopedia Galactica to preserve knowledge and lay the foundation for a new galactic civilization.
The Seldon Plan
A secret plan devised by Hari Seldon to manipulate historical events and guide the galaxy through the dark ages towards a Second Empire. The plan involves creating a series of crises and utilizing the Foundation’s unique position to overcome them.
The Mule
A powerful mutant with the ability to control emotions, who disrupts the Seldon Plan and poses a major threat to the Foundation’s survival.
The Second Foundation
A mysterious organization dedicated to safeguarding and furthering the Seldon Plan, rumored to possess mental powers and operate in secrecy.
Decline of the Galactic Empire
The book explores the slow decline of the vast and powerful Galactic Empire, plagued by corruption, stagnation, and internal conflicts, ultimately leading to its collapse.
Science and Technology vs. Religion and Mysticism
The story portrays the tension between science and technology as forces of progress and the rise of religious and mystical movements during periods of instability and uncertainty.
Individual vs. Society
The book explores the role of individuals in shaping history and the complex dynamics between individual actions and the larger forces of social change.
FAQ about Foundation
Is Foundation appropriate for young readers?
While not overly graphic, Foundation deals with complex themes and political intrigue that may be better suited for older teenagers and adults.
Is Foundation part of a series?
Yes, Foundation is the first book in the Foundation series, followed by Foundation and Empire, Second Foundation, and several prequels and sequels.
Does the Foundation series need to be read in order?
While the publication order differs from the chronological order, it is generally recommended to read the Foundation series in publication order for the best experience.
Foundation Quotes
- Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.
- The Empire will vanish and a thousand thousand worlds will burn—yet one spark will remain, and from this spark, I will build a new Empire.
- Never let your sense of morals prevent you from doing what is right.