Yeah, that, or advanced technology is suppressed and only a select (controlled) few can research it. And these phenomena are glimpses of what is possible, but not ready for global introduction.

Since 1984 is becoming a reality, Aasimov's works also have terrifying parallels with our current society... Just look at what happens with atom reactors in real life and the same is outlined in aasimov's works. Plus everything is sugar coated with religious bullshit, that only few can see through.