Astrology, once considered a legitimate science, has long fascinated humanity with its insights into the connections between celestial movements and earthly events. However, over time, it has lost its scientific status and is now often classified as a pseudoscience. To understand why did astrology stop being scientific, we need to explore the history of astrology and the evolution of scientific thought.
Astrology as a Science
Astrology originated in ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where the study of celestial bodies was deeply intertwined with understanding the natural world. In ancient Babylon, astrologers were revered as scientists, studying planetary movements to predict seasonal changes and significant events.
During the Middle Ages, astrology was taught in universities alongside astronomy and mathematics. It played a vital role in early science, with famous figures such as Galileo Galilei and Johannes Kepler practicing both astronomy and astrology.
The Separation of Astrology from Science
Astrology began to lose its scientific credibility during the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods when science increasingly relied on empirical evidence and rational analysis. Several key factors contributed to this decline:
- Lack of Empirical Evidence
Science increasingly emphasized experimentation and reproducibility. Astrological claims, such as the idea that planetary positions influence personality traits or events, could not be empirically verified or consistently demonstrated. - The Shift in Cosmic Understanding
The 16th-century heliocentric model proposed by Copernicus overturned the geocentric worldview, which placed Earth at the center of the universe. Much of astrology’s foundational logic relied on the geocentric perspective, creating a disconnect between its principles and emerging scientific paradigms. - The Rise of Rationalism
During the 18th-century Enlightenment, rational thought and skepticism toward traditional beliefs became dominant. Astrological practices, lacking mathematical rigor, were dismissed as unscientific. - The Divergence of Astronomy and Astrology
By the 17th century, astronomy had established itself as a distinct scientific discipline focused on the physical study of celestial bodies, whereas astrology remained a symbolic and interpretative art.
Why Does Astrology Remain Popular?
Despite losing its scientific status, astrology remains a popular tool for self-discovery and symbolic interpretation. People often turn to astrology for emotional insight, guidance in decision-making, and a sense of meaning in an unpredictable world.
Astrology’s enduring appeal lies in its universality and flexibility. Its symbols can be interpreted in various ways, allowing individuals to connect with its insights on a personal level. Furthermore, astrology provides comfort and understanding that hard sciences sometimes fail to offer, particularly in addressing existential or emotional concerns.
The Relationship Between Astrology and Science Today
Today, astrology is not considered a science because it does not adhere to the scientific method. Its claims are neither testable nor repeatable under controlled conditions. However, it holds cultural and psychological value, offering a framework for exploring identity, emotions, and life patterns.
The shift in astrology’s status highlights the dynamic nature of science and culture. While astrology is no longer a recognized science, its history reveals how humanity’s understanding of the universe—and our place within it—has evolved over centuries.
