Psychohistorical Inferences Isaac Asimov's Prelude to Foundation.

This paper attempts to examine the psychohistorical inferences with Seldon Plan, the renewal process and the reasons for its abandonment with reference to Isaac Asimov's Prelude to Foundation (1988). It also presents a comprehensive picture of the science fictional universe of Asimov; secondly, the catastrophic elements in this Foundation universe; and finally, identifies the prime-movers who initiate the renewal process. Asimov is emphasizing the creative potential of the new science of Cybernetics as the most likely instrument of human survival. At the same time, Asimov does not ignore the realities of the potential misuse of science and technology; a fact illustrated by the new science of psychology and that of mental powers. In the series, the Seldon Plan is made to stand as a witness for the possible subversion of even the best intensions and designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]