How to Defend Astrology From Skeptics

Few people believe in astrology, but even fewer understand the true philosophy of astrology. Gimmicky newspaper horoscopes and half-baked hippies have led many skeptics to discredit astrology as a form of pseudoscience. The true seeker of wisdom must utilize scientific and philosophical evidence to illuminate skeptics with the truth about astrology. Read on to learn how to defend astrology from skeptics.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Redefine what a belief in astrology really means. Skeptics argue that since astrology is an ancient practice, its use is outdated. They will say it has no scientific basis. Confront this issue by stating that the ancients established astrology as a divine language of archetypes, not as a belief system or religion. Point out that every sign is based on a myth, and these myths teach timeless truths about human existence. Astrology is a poetic way to describe mystery on Earth, similar to music. After all, wouldn’t it be silly if your skeptic opponent said he didn’t believe in music.

2. Concede that smaller-minded folk have perverted astrology, which has led to its degradation. Admit that newspaper horoscopes delude readers by telling them what they want to hear. Then go on to compare how fundamentalist zealots have perverted the true teachings of Christianity, Islam or other beliefs. Just because the masses have profaned a mystery does not mean that that mystery does not teach universal truths.

3. Address the Sidereal/Tropical Debate. Skeptics argue that the tropical zodiac used by the ancients is out of sync with the sidereal zodiac that has been measured by scientists today. They are right about this, but this does not invalidate astrology. Assert that a belief in astrology is based on interpretation. Tropical astrologers use the ancient system for analyzing personality, while sidereal astrologers decode ancient myths through their practice. Astrology was not meant to analyze personalities, but to teach through myth that our material world is connected to the divine world. Therefore, the current sidereal model corresponds perfectly to a philosophical understanding of astrology.

4. Confront the issue of planetary magnetism/celestial force. Skeptics claim it is ignorant to claim that the movements of heavenly bodies influence us on Earth. First, concede that even if planets and stars did affect us, it would be impossible to measure it. Then counter with this: Although we can’t tangibly measure these qualities, we do know that we certain celestial bodies fluctuate in proximity to Earth, depending on the season. The ancient man needed to know this for survival, for certain signs in the sky instructed him on when to hunt, harvest, hibernate and more. We are still dependent upon these signs today, even in our technologically advanced culture. Also, assert that there is scientific proof that the Moon is related to the movement of the ocean’s tides, and to a woman’s monthly cycle.

5. Cite the Gauquelin evidence. Michel and Francoise Gauquelin conducted experiments to determine if being born on a certain day inclined an individual towards a certain career predilection. Their findings are astounding. Look up this experiment and cite it in a debate with a skeptic.

6. Point out that it is impossible to disprove astrology, just as it is impossible to disprove God. Astrology is based on faith, which necessitates belief.

7. Read the work of Manly P. Hall, A.E. Waite, H.P. Blavatsky, Robert Hand and other reputable sources for more ideas on how to defend astrology.

[Jared86]

on 2/25/2009 It is impossible to disprove god, eh? You didn't read my article yet: http://www.ehow.com/how_4807833_disprove-god.html