Foundation by Isaac Asimov revolves around a secretive science institute, led by mathematician Hari Seldon, that aims to mitigate the devastation of the predicted collapse of a 12,000-year-old Galactic Empire by preserving knowledge and guiding future societies through the creation of an Encyclopedia Galactica on the distant planet Terminus.

Isaac Asimov's Foundation is celebrated for its innovative concept and grand scope, making it a cornerstone of sci-fi literature. Critics praise its intellectual depth and compelling narrative. However, some find the character development lacking and the writing style dated. Regardless, it remains a significant and influential work in the genre.

Fans of epic science fiction with complex world-building and sociopolitical intrigue will enjoy Foundation by Isaac Asimov. Readers who appreciate the grand scope of works like Frank Herbert's Dune or Arthur C. Clarke's 2001: A Space Odyssey will find Asimov's exploration of a future galactic empire compelling.

Informative / Mysterious / Challenging / Contemplative / Suspenseful

- Isaac Asimov's Foundation series was originally inspired by Edward Gibbon’s The History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, which Asimov read in his teenage years.
- The concept of psychohistory introduced in Foundation has influenced real-world scientific fields, including predictive analytics and social science.
- Foundation was awarded the one-time Hugo Award for "Best All-Time Series" in 1966, outshining other notable contenders like J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings.

**Hari Seldon**  
A mathematician and psychologist who develops psychohistory, using it to predict future events. He creates the Foundation to preserve scientific knowledge and guide civilization through crises.

**Salvor Hardin**  
The patient and composed Mayor of Terminus City, who prevents invasions and sets the tone for future Foundation leaders. He is known for nonviolent conflict resolution.

**Limmar Ponyets**  
A guild trader who uses negotiation and intelligence to solve problems and supports the Foundation without seeking political power. He represents the shift from other power forms to economic influence.

**Hober Mallow**  
A guild trader and later Mayor of Terminus, known for his patience and strategic thinking in avoiding war with Korell. He promotes cultural diversity and aligns with the Foundation's Plan.

**Gaal Dornick**  
A young mathematician who joins Seldon's Foundation project and serves as a narrative gateway. His observations introduce readers to the setting and Seldon's plans.

**Lewis Pirenne**  
Chairman of the Foundation’s Board of Trustees, dedicated to the Encyclopedia Galactica. He opposes Mayor Hardin and struggles with political decisions.

**Chancellor Dorwin**  
A superficially scholarly and politically clever visitor who discusses military threats with the Foundation. He epitomizes the declining culture and ineffective political strategies of the Empire.

**Sef Sermak**  
A Terminus City Councilman who opposes Mayor Hardin's diplomatic policies and advocates for military action. He represents the more aggressive political perspectives.

**Prince Wienis**  
The ambitious Prince Regent of Anacreon, who seeks to expand power through conquest. He poses a significant threat to the Foundation.

**King Lepold I**  
The young heir of Anacreon, under his uncle Wienis’s influence. He must balance his immaturity with his responsibilities as future king.

**Jorane Sutt**  
A fervent Foundation leader who believes in the institution’s technological religion and opposes Mayor Mallow’s diplomatic approach.

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Part 1: “The Psychohistorians”

Part 1 Foundation Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Encyclopedists”

Part 2 Foundation Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Mayors”

Part 3 Foundation Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Traders”

Part 4 Foundation Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Merchant Princes”

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Foundation

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