Seldon refers to a fictional character in Isaac Asimov's science fiction series, Foundation. Hari Seldon is a mathematician and psychohistorian who plays a crucial role in shaping the future of humanity through his development of a scientific discipline called psychohistory.
In the context of the series, Seldon is regarded as a genius who uses his knowledge of mathematics and social sciences to predict the future behavior of large populations. His psychohistorical theories allow him to anticipate and minimize the detrimental effects of societal collapses and periods of chaos, known as "Seldon Crises," which threaten the stability of the galactic empire.
Seldon's character embodies the concept of foresight and rationality, as he devises a plan to establish a second empire and reduce the intervening dark ages that will occur between its fall and the rise of a subsequent advanced civilization. His projections span thousands of years, and he develops the Foundation, a secret society tasked with preserving knowledge and accelerating societal progress during these turbulent times.
Beyond his mathematical brilliance, Seldon is depicted as a wise and compassionate individual. Though his character does not appear in the actual narrative of Foundation, he appears in pre-recorded hologram messages called Seldon Crises, offering guidance and insight to future generations.
Overall, Seldon is an iconic figure in science fiction literature, representing the power of intellect, strategic planning, and the potential for positive change through scientific advancements.
