Astrology Isn't What You Think It Is

What were we doing when we unchained this earth from its sun? Whither is it moving now? Whither are we moving? Away from all suns? Are we not plunging continually? Backward, sideward, forward, in all directions? Is there still any up or down? Are we not straying as through an infinite nothing? Do we not feel the breath of empty space? Has it not become colder? Is not night continually closing in on us? — Friedrich NietzscheWe live in what seems like the denouement of the age of reason. We feel separate and alienated in a world bereft of meaning. Astrology can be a remedy for that alienation and emptiness. To see why and how, I explore the history of science and European reason, depth psychology, and quantum physics. I then assuage concerns about the implications for free will in astrology, and talk about how Vedic astrology (Jyotish) compares with Western astrology. We go deep in this episode, because the cosmos is deep; we just have to look, and listen. The Modern Astrology Zeitgeist“I don't believe in astrology; I'm a Sagittarius and we're skeptical.” — Arthur C. ClarkeWhy are Millennials so into Astrology? (Jan 2018)“Astrology is not a science; there’s no evidence that one’s zodiac sign actually correlates to personality.” [citing a 1984 research paper showing no correlation between astrology and personality.]Astrology in the Age of Uncertainty (Oct 2019)“Millennials who see no contradiction between using astrology and believing in science are fueling a resurgence of the practice.”Exploding popularity, a booming $40 million business for apps (Nov 2020)The New York Times Modern Love podcast recently featured a story about Vedic astrology.InfluencesSome of the luminaries who Influenced my thinking on astrology, both Western and Vedic, include:Rick TarnasFritjof Capra — I highly recommend reading his now-famous Tao of Physics. Despite being almost 50 years old now, it is still highly relevant today. Amit GoswamiAnand Mehrotra"Nature is alive and talking to us. This is not a metaphor." — Terence McKennaLearn more about my astrology offerings.Support the showJoin Chad's newsletter to learn about all new offerings, courses, trainings, and retreats. Finally, you can support the podcast here.