Prelude to Foundation

Historical Context and Significance

«Prelude to Foundation» by Isaac Asimov is a crucial part of his renowned Foundation series. This book serves as a prequel to the main series, exploring the origins of psychohistory—a fictional science that allows for the prediction of the future of large communities. In «Prelude to Foundation», Asimov delves into the character and motivations of the protagonist, Hari Seldon, and describes his journey through the Galactic Empire in search of support for his theory. The historical significance of the book lies in its expansion of the Foundation universe, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the world Asimov created. Its cultural impact is reflected in the popularization of ideas about the predictability of human behavior and the role of science in society. The book also emphasizes the importance of individual effort and intellect in altering the course of history, inspiring readers to contemplate the future of humanity and their personal role in it.