In "The Collapsing Empire," John Scalzi explores the idea that anyone can claim to be a prophet simply by asserting that their insights are inspired by a higher power or divine influence. This perspective highlights the ease with which people can adopt the mantle of prophecy, regardless of the accuracy of their predictions.

The notion raises questions about the nature of belief and authority in prophecies, suggesting that the importance lies not in whether the prophecies materialize, but in the belief that they originate from a divine source. This commentary reflects on the subjective nature of faith and the way individuals interpret and convey their visions of the future.