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Science Fiction· United States

Foundation

by Isaac Asimov
Aggregate Editorial Score41/100
TIME 100 Best Novels
Published 1951240 pagesEnglish
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About This Book

Few works of science fiction have earned the sustained critical attention that Foundation (1951) by Isaac Asimov continues to receive. Mathematician Hari Seldon uses psychohistory to predict the fall of the Galactic Empire and establishes the Foundation to shorten the coming dark age. Asimov's landmark trilogy—winner of the Hugo Award for Best All-Time Series—is the most influential science fiction series ever written. Themes of civilization, mathematics, empire run through the work. The book has received recognition from TIME 100 Best Novels 1951.

Book Details

AuthorIsaac Asimov
Published1951
Country of Origin🇺🇸 United States
LanguageEnglish
Pages240
Category🚀 Science Fiction
ISBN9780553803716
Editorial Score41/100
About the Category

🚀 Science Fiction

Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.

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Country of Origin

🇺🇸 United States

This book is part of United States's rich literary tradition.

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Editorial Assessment

Foundation by Isaac Asimov explores the rise and fall of civilizations through the lens of psychohistory, a fictional science that merges history and sociology to predict societal trends. The narrative's sweeping scope and intricate plotting invite readers to consider the cyclical nature of history and the role of individual agency within it. Asimov's blend of hard science fiction with philosophical inquiry has cemented the novel's significance as a pioneering work that laid the groundwork for future speculative fiction.
About this assessment: Editorial scores are aggregated from 1 independent sources including major literary prizes, critical surveys, and leading publications. Our editorial team reviews and contextualises this data. Rankings reflect critical consensus, not personal opinion or popularity metrics. Learn about our methodology.

Awards & Recognition

TIME 100 Best Novels
notable · global
195113
✍️
About the Author
Isaac Asimov
United States
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Isaac Asimov is a celebrated author from United States known for influential works of science fiction.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Foundation about?

Mathematician Hari Seldon uses psychohistory to predict the fall of the Galactic Empire and establishes the Foundation to shorten the coming dark age. Asimov's landmark trilogy—winner of the Hugo Award for Best All-Time Series—is the most influential science fiction series ever written.

Who wrote Foundation?

Foundation was written by Isaac Asimov, from United States. First published in 1951.

What awards has Foundation won?

Foundation has received the following awards and honours: TIME 100 Best Novels 1951.

Is Foundation worth reading?

Foundation is a book that has earned critical recognition, with an aggregate editorial score of 13/100 on 50 Best Books, based on mentions across 1 editorial source. It is particularly recommended for readers interested in civilization, mathematics, empire.

Where can I buy Foundation?

You can buy Foundation on Amazon. Click the Buy on Amazon button above to find the best edition.

What category is Foundation?

Foundation is classified as Science Fiction. Speculative fiction exploring technology, space, the future, and society.

What country is Foundation from?

Foundation originates from United States's literary tradition. Explore more books from United States on our country page.

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