Isaac Asimov's Foundation series is a collection of science fiction novels that explores the rise and fall of a galactic empire. The story follows Hari Seldon, a mathematician who develops a theory called psychohistory, which uses statistical laws to predict the future of large populations. Seldon establishes the Foundation to preserve knowledge and culture, aiming to shorten the impending dark age following the empire's collapse. The series spans several centuries and features a diverse cast of characters, including politicians, scientists, and traders. Asimov's work delves into themes of power, knowledge, and the cyclical nature of history, influencing many subsequent works in the science fiction genre.