Astrology isn’t science, but your horoscope is more real than you think

Quartz2 minutes read

Astrology, while not a science, is widely used to explain emotions and relationships, with its roots dating back to ancient Babylonians and Greeks. Despite facing challenges during the scientific revolution, astrology remains popular, especially online, with over 40% of Americans seeing it as somewhat scientific.

Insights

  • Astrology, historically rooted in ancient civilizations like Babylon and influenced by Greek and Indian discoveries, evolved from a scientific tool to a popular method for explaining personal experiences and relationships.
  • Despite facing skepticism from the scientific community during the modern era, astrology has persisted and even thrived in the digital age, with a significant portion of the American population regarding it as having some scientific validity, showcasing its enduring appeal and relevance.

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Recent questions

  • What is astrology and its significance?

    Astrology is a belief system that interprets the positions and movements of celestial bodies to predict events and explain human behavior. Despite not being a science, it is widely embraced by many to understand emotions, relationships, and life challenges.

  • How did ancient civilizations use astrology?

    Ancient Babylonians recognized patterns in the stars and used astrology for scientific purposes, accurately predicting events like eclipses. This early application of astrology laid the foundation for its continued use and development throughout history.

  • What impact did the discovery of precession have on astrology?

    The discovery of precession by ancient Greeks and Indians altered astrology by correlating Sun signs with seasons rather than stars. This shift in perspective changed the way astrologers interpreted celestial movements and their influence on human life.

  • Why did astrology face challenges during the scientific revolution?

    Astrology faced challenges during the scientific revolution as science contradicted its geocentric beliefs. The rise of scientific discoveries and advancements led to a decline in the credibility of astrology as a legitimate practice.

  • How has astrology evolved in modern times?

    Despite being mocked by scientists, astrology remains popular, with over 40% of Americans viewing it as somewhat scientific. Astrology has found a new platform on the internet, with apps like Co-Star gaining popularity for providing personalized astrological predictions based on algorithms. This modern adaptation has allowed astrology to reach a wider audience and continue to influence popular culture.

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Summary

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Astrology: Ancient tool, modern popularity, internet presence.

  • Astrology, despite not being a science, is a widely embraced tool for many to explain emotions, relationships, and issues.
  • Ancient Babylonians, recognizing patterns in the stars, used astrology for scientific purposes, accurately predicting events like eclipses.
  • The discovery of precession by ancient Greeks and Indians altered astrology, correlating Sun signs with seasons rather than stars.
  • Astrology faced challenges during the scientific revolution as science contradicted its geocentric beliefs, leading to its decline.
  • Despite being mocked by scientists, astrology remains popular, with over 40% of Americans viewing it as somewhat scientific.
  • Astrology has found a new platform on the internet, with apps like Co-Star gaining popularity for providing personalized astrological predictions based on algorithms.
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