Even among those who do not believe in a god, there is still a strong belief in the supernatural. Almost no one can claim to entirely reject irrational ideas such as life after death, astrology, or the existence of a universal life-force, according to research conducted on atheists and agnostics around the world.
Thousands of self-identified atheists and agnostics from six nations were questioned by the UK-based Understanding Unbelief project: Brazil, China, Denmark, Japan, the United States, and the United Kingdom. It was discovered that, despite their lack of belief in God, the majority of people…
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Are there any atheists who believe in astrology?
Christine Smallwood’s fascinating piece, “Astrology in the Age of Uncertainty:
Astrology is currently experiencing widespread popular acceptability that has not been seen since the 1970s. The transition began with the introduction of the personal computer, was expedited by the Internet, and has now reached new levels of speed thanks to social media. According to a Pew Research Center poll from 2017, about a third of Americans believe in astrology.
Astrology, like psychoanalysis before it, has infiltrated our collective vernacular. At a party in the 1950s, you could have heard someone talk about the id, ego, or superego; now, it’s normal to hear someone explain herself using the sun, moon, and rising signs. It isn’t just that you are aware of it. It’s who’s saying it: folks who aren’t kooks or deniers of climate change, who don’t find a conflict between utilizing astrology and believing in science…
I ran a short Google search and discovered the following Pew report from October 2018:
The religion breakdown was the only thing that surprised me about this table.
I had the impression that mainline Protestants were the rational ones, but they believe in astrology at the same rate as the overall population.
But, hey, I guess they’re ordinary Americans, so they have average American ideas.
Only 3% of atheists believe in astrology, which is also unexpected.
This makes sense, yet it seemed reasonable to me that someone may not believe in God but believe in other supernatural things: in fact, I could see astrology as a type of replacement for a traditional religious system.
But it appears that is not the case.
Brian Wansink has been compared to an astrologer who can make astute observations about the world based on a combination of persuasiveness and qualitative understanding, and then attributes his success to tarot cards or tea leaves rather than a more practical ability to synthesize ideas and tell good stories.
Does Brian Wansink, on the other hand, believe in astrology?
What about Marc Hauser, Ed Wegman, Susan Fiske, and the rest of the bunch who call their detractors “second-string, replication police, methodological terrorists, Stasi, and so on?”
I doubt they believe in astrology because it symbolizes a rival belief system: it’s a business that, in some ways, competes with rah-rah Ted-talk science.
I wouldn’t be shocked if famous ESP researchers believe in astrology, but I get the impression that mainstream junk-science supporters in academia and the news media feel uncomfortable discussing ESP since its research methods are so similar to their own.
They don’t want to be associated with ESP researchers because it would devalue their own study, but they also don’t want to put them under the bus because they are fellow Ivy League academics, so the safest plan is to remain quiet about it.
The greater point, however, is not astrology believing in and of itself, but the mental state that allows individuals to believe in something so contrary to our scientific understanding of the world.
(OK, I apologize to the 29% of you who don’t agree with me on this.)
When I return to writing on statistical graphics, model verification, Bayesian computation, Jamaican beef patties, and other topics, you can rejoin the fold.)
It’s not that astrology couldn’t be correct a priori:
We can come up with credible hypotheses under which astrology is real and amazing, just as we can with embodied cognition, beauty and sex ratio, ovulation and voting, air rage, ages ending in 9, and all the other Psychological Science / PNAS classics.
It’s just that nothing has come up after years of rigorous research.
And the existing theories aren’t particularly convincing: they’re speculative world models that may be good if the purpose was to describe a real and enduring occurrence, but they’re less so without actual data.
Anyway, if 30% of Americans are willing to believe such nonsense, it’s no surprise that a significant number of influential American psychology professors will have the kind of attitude toward scientific theory and evidence that leads them to have strong beliefs in weak theories with no supporting evidence.
Indeed, not only support for specific weak theories, but support for the fundamental principle that pseudoscientific views should be treated with respect (although, oddly enough, maybe not for astrology itself).
P.S.In defense of the survey respondents (but not of the psychology professors who support ideas like the “critical positivity ratio,” which makes astrology appear positively sane in comparison), belief in astrology (or, for that matter, belief in heaven, gravity, or the square-cube law) is essentially free.
Why not believe these things, or not believe them?
Belief or denial in evolution, climate change, or unconscious bias, on the other hand, can have social or political consequences.
Some opinions are purely personal, while others have a direct impact on policy.
I have less patience for famous academic and media elites who aggressively support junk science by not just expressing their trust in speculative notions supported by no real data, but also attacking those who point out these emperors’ nudity. Furthermore, even a hypothetical tolerant, open-minded supporter of junk sciencethe type of person who might believe in critical positivity ratio but actively support the publication of criticisms of that workcan still cause some harm by contaminating scientific journals and the news media with bad science, and by promoting sloppy work that takes up space that could be used for more careful research.
You know how they say science corrects itself, but only because individuals are willing to correct themselves?
Gresham’s law is also true, but only when people are willing to distribute counterfeit notes or money they think is counterfeit while keeping their lips shut until they can get rid of their wads of worthless stock.
P.P.S.Just to be clear:I don’t think astrology is a waste of time, and it’s possible that Marc Hauser was onto something real, even while faking data (according to the US government, as mentioned on Wikipedia), and the critical positivity ratio, ovulation, voting, and all the rest…
Just because there isn’t enough evidence to support a theory doesn’t mean it’s untrue.
I’m not trying to disprove any of these assertions.
All of it should be published someplace, along with all of the criticism.
My issue with junk science proponents isn’t simply that they advocate science that I and others perceive to be rubbish; they can also be wrong!
However, they consistently avoid, deny, and oppose valid open criticism.
P.P.P.S.Remember that #notallpsychologists.
Of course, the problem of junk research isn’t limited to psychology in any way.
Professors of political science, economics, sociology, and history, to the extent that they believe in astrology, spoon bending, or whatever (that is, belief in “scientific paranormalism as describing some true thing about the natural world, not just a “anthropological recognition that paranormal beliefs can affect the world because people believe in it), this could also sabotage their research.
I suppose it’s not such a big problem if a physicist or chemist believes in these things.
I’m not attempting to shut down study into astrology, embodied cognition, ESP, beauty-and-sex-ratio, endless soup bowls, spoon bending, the Bible Code, air anger, ovulation and voting, subliminal smiley faces, or anything else.
Allow for the blooming of a thousand blooms!
Given that a sizable portion of the populace is willing to believe in scientific-sounding notions that aren’t backed by any good scientific theory or evidence, it should come as no surprise that many professional scientists hold this viewpoint.
The repercussions are especially evident in psychology, which is a vital field of study where theories can be hazy and where there is a long legacy of belief and action based on flimsy data.
That isn’t to say that psychologists are awful people; they’re merely working on difficult challenges in a field with a long history of failures.
This isn’t a critique; it’s just the way things are. Of course, there is a lot of excellent work being done in the field of psychology. You’ll have to work with what you’ve got.
Is astrology a form of religion?
There have been certain themes that have confused even the sharpest minds on the planet since the birth of human civilisation. The link between the cosmic realm and our daily life is one such topic. Astrologers are specialists who work with the positions of the stars and planets. They turn what they’ve learned into what’s known as prediction.
While each religion is essentially a system of laws based on a set of beliefs, astrology is a perfect marriage of science and art that uses celestial body placements. So, whether Christians believe in Jesus Christ’s good works and teachings or Hindus believe in ‘the science of light,’ or ‘Jyotish Shastra,’ fortune telling is still the bottom line.
Surprisingly, these prophecies or foretellings may be found in many civilizations and religions. The tactics may change, but the outcomes remain consistent. Have you ever considered how these ideas can be related despite the fact that the belief ecosystem is so dissimilar? So, here’s a no-brainer: everyone is, and will continue to be, concerned about their future and seeking to be their best selves, capable of overcoming problems. Almost everyone else aspires to anticipate what will happen ahead of time and to act as efficiently as possible when events do occur. People of all faiths and cultures may agree on this.
Calculations are performed by all religions, albeit the methods used may differ. The outcomes, on the other hand, are the same. Almost everyone else aspires to anticipate what will happen ahead of time and to act as efficiently as possible when events do occur. People of all faiths and cultures may agree on this. There are various viewpoints on the matter, but it all boils down to education. Look for an astrological institute that teaches you everything you need to know about the various astrology courses that are accessible online. Online astrology classes are available, as are astrology courses offered through distance education.
Have you ever observed how our celebrations are organized when it comes to astrology and religion? The celebrations highlight the connection between astrology and religion. If you look closely, you’ll notice that all of the festivals are based on the position of the stars/moon and the sun. This is true of all religions, to the extent where astrology has become an integral part of religious rituals.
So, if you look at data from the beginning of time to the present day, you’ll discover a wide range of astrological systems, all branching out of different systems but ultimately pointing to an astrological-religious tie. In India, one of the most prevalent forms of astrology is Vedic astrology.
Astrology is the foundation of Hinduism. People hurry to their astrologer as soon as a baby is born to get his ‘Janam Patri’ made and to choose the best name for him. The Mahabharata, for example, mentions astrology in several Hindu epics. Only the ‘Brahmins’ had access to astrology knowledge at first. Then they would sit in the temples and predict the future. As a result, a relationship was created between astrology and Hinduism.
The concept of Astrology became increasingly available to the general public in the area as time passed. In 2020, everyone with even a passing interest in astrology will be able to find lessons and research. Astrology is a ‘pseudoscience’ that calculates and interprets the movement of planets. It isn’t predicated on wild guesses. Several Hindu households consult their astrologer before making major decisions.
In Islam, astrology is also a belief. Their forebears believed that the movement of the stars, sun, moon, and other heavenly bodies might influence the lives of individuals who lived on the planet, as seen through the eyes of India’s best astrologer. Their faith in astrology has waned over time, and just a few people still believe it. It is entirely dependent on the individual. While a conservative Muslim may not believe in astrology, someone who does not believe in any religion may have faith in it.
Christianity is the only religion that is known to believe in astrology. People should not trust astrology, according to the Bible. Despite this, there are numerous astrologers in the Western world. They claim that the Bible has been misinterpreted and that it warns about specific sins committed by specific persons. Western countries have much fewer astrologers than countries like India. This also reveals how little astrology is believed in Western countries. People were already skeptical about astrology, and the Bible only adds to their concerns. As a result, astrology is only believed by a small number of Christians.
India is a top country in terms of astrological believing, as may be deduced. At least once throughout their life, more than half of the population has sought the advice of an astrologer. Because Hinduism and Islam are both widespread in India, astrology devotees are likely to be as well. Astrology does a fantastic job of predicting the future and providing solutions to difficulties.
Individual belief systems differ, and it is up to them to decide whether or not to believe in something. Despite its 5000-year history, astrology continues to thrive. This confirms our belief in astrology.
Here are some crucial details:
- The hostility of some devout religious believers dates back to a time when priests and religious leaders attempted to interpret and mediate all religious experiences from their positions of authority. Before the development of male-dominated organized religion, our predecessors sought heavenly inspiration directly from the stars and thought themselves to be an intricate part of an active universe unfolding.
- Anyone could use astrology as a tool and a belief system based on an enchantment with the divine orchestrations of the heavens. Astrology presupposes the existence of an unlimited and purposeful mind that pervades the skies and the earth in a grand symphony of meaning, rather than the worship of a particular deity or leader.
A client’s confidence might be boosted with the help of a trustworthy, neutral astrologer. I’ve helped several customers reclaim and activate their religious roots through a chart analysis, guiding them toward the power that comes with following a religious path.
For some people, religion is a cornerstone of psychological and mental well-being. Astrological principles and practices are free of sexism, racism, homophobia, and other forms of oppression, unlike many organized faiths. Even the classic astrological metaphors of masculine and feminine planets and energies have been reinvented as non-gendered receptive and active energies. Every individual, like every planet and star in the sky, has a firm seat at the table of the universe.
This is a large issue, and I’m not sure if I’ve offered enough material to tie everything together. Please keep an eye on my column for more information on this topic in the future.
Is Christianity supportive of astrology?
Although astrology was found to be incompatible with the fundamental tenets of Christianity in its original form, those who remained interested in it as a science sought various methods to remove the objectionable elements, incorporate the Christian God, and legitimize its use in the eyes of the Church.
Do atheists believe in a life after death?
“Most Buddhists believe that when you die, you do not go somewhere else, but rather that you are reborn as something and someone altogether different. The concept of reincarnation has existed for a long time, dating back to pre-Buddhist origins. The Buddha accepted it, and the concept of a cycle of birth and reincarnation became part of his teachings.
“Buddhists believe that your actions in this life set the tone for your subsequent lifetimes. It’s crucial to understand, though, because Buddhists believe that ‘you’ are not the ones who are reincarnated. It’s something else, a different entity, a different essence that is influenced by your actions.
“For many Buddhists, death is considered as a continuation rather than an end. We believe that you pass from life to life, therefore this can help Buddhists overcome their dread of death and accept it as a necessary part of their journey.
“We also want to make death as painless as possible for ourselves and our loved ones, as this is part of the behavior I stated before that will affect your next life. As a result, Buddhists frequently desire to make sure their affairs are in order and their families are taken care of before they die, knowing that they won’t be able to do so in the next life.
David Cunningham-Green is a member of Atheism UK
“As an atheist, I have no ‘beliefs.’ By definition, a belief is an unverified want, not a truth. An atheist avoids living in particular ways because religious people try to achieve favor with their god or avoid her/his disapproval. Atheists, by definition, do not believe in any type of life after death. Most people would not believe that their pets had an afterlife, and there is no proof that humans are any different. When I die, it signifies that I am no longer alive.
“This isn’t to say that atheists aren’t concerned about dying. An atheist, like most people, does not want to die slowly, in pain, or bringing grief to those around them. Many religions suggest that there is a negative aspect to the afterlife, most notably Hell in Christianity. Atheists do not believe in a hereafter, hence they have nothing to worry from it. Death is a full-stop for an atheist, hence it is the process of dying that matters.”
Are Scorpios spiritual beings?
Aries: Being religious and following rites, like everything else in life, is a question of convenience for the Arian. They don’t expect others to follow religion, and they don’t like it when others don’t. Arians are those who visit a temple merely to pass the time.
Taurus: Taurians have a tendency to go to extremes when it comes to religion. They don’t appear to be able to find a happy medium. So you either discover individuals who are so devout that you think they are insane, or you find those who are not religious at all. Or those who are absolutely anti-rituals and appear to be outlaws.
Gemini: It’s unusual to meet a Gemini who doesn’t believe in religion or the ceremonies that go with it. During festivals, Gemini is the sign that usually takes the lead and begins with the Ganesh puja. Young Geminis may appear to be disorganized at first, but they will eventually conform.
Cancerians are profoundly devout, and it shows in everything they do. They are the people who call on the Lord’s name at all times. They’re the ones who put God’s portraits in office areas and make regular trips to the street corner to drop money in the small hundi. Their religious faith can border on fanaticism at times.
Leo: Leos believe in anything as long as they understand the meaning of each ceremony. So they may never have fasted before, but once they understand the meaning of fasting, they will promise to fast for the rest of their life. Their religiousness is guided by reasoning.
Virgo: Surprisingly, Virgos are not particularly religious. At the very least, they don’t feel that practicing a religion requires you to follow their practices. So it’s not strange to see ardent Virgos who would rather meditate on their God than do elaborate temple prayers.
Libra: Even in ceremonies, Librans have a yo-yo inclination. They may appear egotistical because they are religious just when it is convenient for them. As a result, while they may wish to have a lavish lunch on festival day, they may not believe in fasting the day before.
Scorpio: In a subtle sense, Scorpios are religious. They despise displaying their faith. Instead, many prefer to have a quiet conversation with God late at night or when they are in need of strength. If you don’t see a picture of God in their apartments, don’t be astonished; they profess to be devotees.
Sagittarius: Sagittarians are the type of people who can recite the entire Vishnusahasranam in one sitting and yet be eager to learn more. They are devout Christians who enjoy discussing life and religion.
Capricorn: Capricorns are easygoing people who go with the flow. If the others around you are doing puja, they will do the same. They don’t make a big deal about any of the rituals. They don’t believe in many rituals themselves, but they’ll go through with it.
Aquarius: Aquarians can be anti-religious at times, and they refuse to follow any rite until they are convinced. They place a high value on belief and will not commit to anything unless they are convinced.
Pisces: Before believing in god, religion, or rituals, Pisceans require a cause. They don’t mind ardently following these ideals if they hang out with the correct people who can tell them about them.