Foundation
About the Series
The Foundation series is a seminal work of science fiction that explores the rise and fall of civilizations in a vast galactic empire. It delves into the complexities of social, political, and technological evolution, as well as the potential for psychohistory—a mathematical sociology that predicts the future of large populations. Throughout the series, readers are taken on a journey through time as characters grapple with the inevitability of change and the struggle for survival in the face of impending chaos.
Series Details
- Author:Isaac Asimov
- Started:1951
- Books:5
- Status:Complete
Genres
Themes
Books in Order
Foundation
1951The first book in the series introduces the concept of psychohistory and the character Hari Seldon, who predicts the fall of the Galactic Empire. To preserve knowledge and culture, he establishes the Foundation, a group of scientists tasked with creating a repository of human knowledge to shorten the impending dark age.
Foundation and Empire
1952This sequel focuses on the challenges faced by the Foundation as it encounters the remnants of the Galactic Empire and the rise of the Mule, a mutant with the ability to manipulate emotions. The story explores the impact of individual actions on the course of history.
Second Foundation
1953The third book reveals the existence of the Second Foundation, a secretive group of psychohistorians who work to protect the original Foundation from external threats. The narrative delves into the themes of manipulation and the hidden forces that shape societies.
Foundation's Edge
1982Set several centuries after the original trilogy, this installment follows a new protagonist, Golan Trevize, who is tasked with uncovering the location of the Second Foundation and the true nature of the psychohistorical plan. This book reintroduces the philosophical underpinnings of the series.
Foundation and Earth
1986The final book in the original Foundation series sees Trevize and his companions embark on a quest to find the mythical planet of Earth, exploring themes of identity and the origins of humanity within the galaxy. The story connects the Foundation series with Asimov's other works, particularly the Robot series.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inspired Isaac Asimov to write the Foundation series?
Asimov was inspired by the decline of the Roman Empire and the idea that history follows certain patterns. He sought to explore how societies can collapse and how knowledge can be preserved to mitigate the effects of such collapses.
Is the Foundation series connected to Asimov's Robot series?
Yes, the Foundation series is connected to Asimov's Robot series. Several characters and themes overlap, particularly concerning the development of artificial intelligence and the ethical implications of advanced technology.
What is psychohistory?
Psychohistory is a fictional science in the Foundation series that combines history, sociology, and statistical mathematics to predict the behavior of large groups of people. It plays a central role in the series' narrative and themes.