27. Foundation

by Isaac Asimov (236 pgs)

Rating: 3

The time of the Galactic civilization is ending. Progress has receded to stagnation and backslide into mysticism. The empire fails. A psychohistorian has the foresight to create two outposts of scientific advancement. This book follows Foundation over the course of about 200 years and 3 'Seldon crises.'

Asimov is an interesting writer. I've heard it complained that this is a boring book and I certainly had a hard time getting into it as a kid. However, it's not boring, just very very slow. The premise of mathematical predication of vast social movements is an interesting one although I have a problem with the term 'psychohistory.' It is a good exploration of the problems of a galactic empire.

Recommended to Science Fiction fans, this is something that should be read for the sake of the genre.