Foundation #1
Foundation was fun. It’s a series of short stories in the same universe, with 20-50 years between each story. The first story sets the premise. The second fine-tunes the objective. Three, four and five keep the ball rolling and demonstrate how the aim stays the same yet shifts as needs dictate.
The idea that psychohistory, a science based on probability and mathematics, can see into the future is terrifying. No wonder Hari Seldon is treated with skepticism and concern. The political class’s response could parallel the response to climate change over the last 30 years: denial, skepticism, defamation, all while Rome burns. It’s so cool that the collective response to significant change was predicted so accurately by Asimov in 1951 when Foundation was published.
I read I, Robot a few months ago and was powerfully impressed that it was humorous, light and thought-provoking. I expected Asimov’s writing to be dry, technical and unengaging. I was so wrong. Foundation continues in that vein, with gotcha’s, hilarious exchanges, and subtle nuances that left me unsettled and thoughtful.
The idea of a Seldon Crisis, where there are no right actions to take, and inaction may be the best course of action, was fascinating. Several scenarios are de-escalated or turned around on the antagonist without violence. The Mayors are savvy and wily, tapping into the right levers of power at the right time. The idea of de-escalating and taking a pause resonated. I know when I’m in conflict, be it a proposal I’m against at work or fighting for something I think is right, my immediate urge is to go on the attack. Often, it’s not the right instinct. After reading Foundation, I fully feel the message sinking in and its repercussions in my personal life.
I enjoyed all five stories, though the last two are my favourite. Salvor Hardin was an excellent character. The main characters are focused and single-minded, and we don’t get to know them on a personal level. They are not given an opportunity to be deep or complex.
Amazingly, Asimov managed to pack so much meaning and depth into 244 pages. As Foundation lays out so much material that most sci-fi leans on, it felt familiar and comfortable.
I have book two on hold at the library and I very much look forward to the notification it’s available!