Prelude to the Academy. Azimov A.

Young scientist Hari Seldon opens algorithms that allow mathematically predicting public development. He calls this psychostoria. But for Emperor Cleon, the first psychostory is the opportunity to predict and direct the development of his galactic empire. That is why Seldon, as the chief theorist of the psychostory, becomes the most wanted person in a colonized universe.

The first prequel to the cycle "Academy" of the great Isaac Azimov.