Foundation: A Book Recommendation

Cover of Foundation by Isaac Asimov

Synopsis

The Empire has stood for ages, yet one man — Hari Seldon — has predicted its fall. Not all hope is lost, as an age of barbarism is ready to set into the once prosperous regions of the Empire.

Hari Seldon and his team have developed a plan to return the galaxy to peace. This plan is rooted in the burgeoning new field of study, capable of projecting the course of human history utilizing both psychology and mathematics. His team estimates that it will take 30,000 years for the Second Empire to form, but they have a plan to shorten it to just 1,000. This plan is known as the Foundation.

Rooted in the science of Psychohistory, Hari Seldon and his team have carefully estimated the best possible future outcomes for their Foundation to ensure it against destruction, but estimates are just estimates, and only time will tell.

“Violence is the last refuge of the incompetent.” — Isaac Asimov, Foundation

Modern Relevance

The first book of the eponymously named Foundation Trilogy, Foundation by Isaac Asimov, stands as a giant upon the history of Science Fiction. Published in 1951, Foundation stands up to the test of time. At its heart, Foundation is a space opera spanning an entire galaxy, at times feeling more like a history than a novel.

Asimov’s goal with this book was not to write a story about characters but a story about human society. For this reason, the book might not be for everyone. The plot is not character-driven; it is driven by the projections of Psychohistory. The Foundation’s epic scope has become the basis for many modern sci-fi novels.

If you have read Dune, you will see some striking similarities. A massive galaxy, with an empire that rules absolutely, and a person who “sees” the future, it is clear that Frank Herbert was influenced by Foundation.

Final Recommendation

Yes, this book is over 70 years old, and yes, it does at times show its age, but Foundation is a uniquely rewarding experience. It is a story of hope in a world of decline.

As the Empire recedes into history and the once prosperous galaxy declines, the Foundation never loses faith in its founder. Though knowledge of Psychohistory has long been lost to the Foundation, an unwavering reliance is placed on Hari Seldon’s projections of the future. When all resources have been exhausted, the only thing left is to believe in Hari Seldon’s Plan.