I believe that these things are possible - and, because they are, we are bound by a high ethical standard. Rather tritely put, what goes around comes around. Or another way, the power of three (or ten).
quote:
mental discipline and training(lifelong if necessary)?
No - a life time of usage maybe, but certainly does not require a life time to "master."
Reminds me of PR - you believe in it, you get the hang of it, then continue to use it and expand upon it forever. 
I've only read a couple of Asimov's books - "I, Robot" was my first scifi venture waaaaaayyy back when I was maybe in Jr.Hi.
Now that you've mentioned the Foundation I think I'll have to go dig it up. You've got my curiosity peaked! Hmmmmm .... should I PR it first or jump straight in ....
*A* fellow traveler
