Morgan BellToday's horoscope...
April 25th 2006 16:15
Astrology is a strange phenomenon.
Think about it – there are over 6.5 billion people in the world, and only 12 signs of the zodiac. Can you really believe that you essentially have the same personality traits as 500 million other people in the world?
Can you believe that all 500 million of you will indeed encounter your soulmate within the next month, as long as you are sure to keep an eye on your finances?
ABC Science recently reported on the growing amount of scientific evidence against the truth behind “Sun signs”. Sun signs are the signs based on the position of the Sun at the time of your birth, such as Aquarius, Leo, etc
Other, more detailed forms of astrology are still under question. Dr Peter Hartmann of the University of Aarhus told ABC Science: "When considering the current scientific standing with respect to Sun signs, it becomes clear that there is little or no truth in [them] … This does not necessarily mean that all astrology is without truth, but only that the independent effect of Sun signs is most likely to be irrelevant"
Despite Dr Hartmann’s disclaimer, all studies point to the discreditation of astrology. Why then are we so keen to believe?
Here’s a little experiment from 1st year Psychology. Read the following paragraph. Does it sound like it could be written about you or your star sign?
[/i]“In appearance you will be found to be well proportioned, strong in body, muscular, with a broad face and majestic, commanding look… This iciness is only the surface of your deep and complex nature. Below this surface of your cool exterior, you're true scorching nature blazes! You’re passionate and express that passion in everything you do.
In a crowded room your aura stands out—not because of anything you may say or do. But being the strong quiet type, you possess a deafening silence that makes it near impossible for others to ignore you. You’re controlled and know full well that this magnetism can manipulate anyone and everyone who comes within your orb. And you love it! This secretive and enigmatic energy of yours is probably your greatest strength. You are also very loyal and trustworthy and can honour and maintain the secrets entrusted to you.”[/i]
Here’s the source of the description. Were you right? Or was it simply the Barnum effect in action?
(image from flickr.com
Think about it – there are over 6.5 billion people in the world, and only 12 signs of the zodiac. Can you really believe that you essentially have the same personality traits as 500 million other people in the world?
Can you believe that all 500 million of you will indeed encounter your soulmate within the next month, as long as you are sure to keep an eye on your finances?
Other, more detailed forms of astrology are still under question. Dr Peter Hartmann of the University of Aarhus told ABC Science: "When considering the current scientific standing with respect to Sun signs, it becomes clear that there is little or no truth in [them] … This does not necessarily mean that all astrology is without truth, but only that the independent effect of Sun signs is most likely to be irrelevant"
Despite Dr Hartmann’s disclaimer, all studies point to the discreditation of astrology. Why then are we so keen to believe?
Here’s a little experiment from 1st year Psychology. Read the following paragraph. Does it sound like it could be written about you or your star sign?
[/i]“In appearance you will be found to be well proportioned, strong in body, muscular, with a broad face and majestic, commanding look… This iciness is only the surface of your deep and complex nature. Below this surface of your cool exterior, you're true scorching nature blazes! You’re passionate and express that passion in everything you do.
Here’s the source of the description. Were you right? Or was it simply the Barnum effect in action?
(image from flickr.com
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Comment by tokes
Comment by liz
i reckon astrology can tell you a lot about yourself. starsigns, tarot readings, etc often suggest things in a very subtle way. so even if readings aren't "true" per se, they do help bring out any truth thay may be within you.
do i sound like a dirty hippy?