Foundation is a science fiction novel written by Isaac Asimov. It is set in a future where a mathematician named Hari Seldon predicts the fall of the Galactic Empire. Seldon establishes a foundation to preserve knowledge and shorten the dark ages that will follow the empire's collapse. The book spans several centuries and explores themes of politics, psychology, and the nature of civilization. Foundation is known for its intricate plot and exploration of social and political systems.