Women: A Target Audience or a Victim?

In a few of the Astrology-related journals, articles, and sources I read, the authors commented on the focus of Astrology on women. It's true. Horoscopes may be in the daily newspapers, but beyond that they are most commonly found in women's magazines. Honestly, most followers of Astrology seem to be women. Is this because of a trait of women, or because of how Astrology is marketed?

I think it's both, and here's why;

Targeting: If only a specific audience is targeted by this information, it is only reasonable they will be more vulnerable. Without the necessary information, other groups of people are less likely to be interested in Astrology let alone know about it. The very narrow focus on women makes it unlikely that other parties will consider Astrology.

Women: Women are, in general, more emotional. They attempt to understand the relationships they have with others. There is no better way to understand the relationship you have with others than understanding yourself, your traits, and how you affect those around you. Since it is difficult to step back and take an objective look at one's own actions and beliefs, it is much easier to have an external force inform you about yourself. That way, information that seems off can be disregarded: they don't know you. Information that seems relevant and truthful, on the other hand, can explain a lot about oneself.

So ladies, watch out! They want YOU!

The Biggest Misunderstanding

When people are talking about Astrology, the most prevalent misconception is that Astrology is a legitimated science. The fact that it has objective, measurable elements does not constitute validity. People are unaware that Astrology has mystic roots, and relies entirely on relative interpretations of the "solid" information it "calculates".

While there is definitely evidence of some accuracy in the natal chart division of Astrology, it cannot be proven past chance and persuasive language! There are multiple variables as to why someone could find a birth chart more accurate than it really is: 1) the chart is very generally applicable, 2) coincidence, or 3) they are egotistical and generally accept a wide array of traits (especially positive ones, the most prevalent in Astrology).

The people in question take the accurate findings too seriously, and assume that there is something beyond psychological trickery at hand here. I'm not attempting to dismiss the art of Astrologers--they've certainly gotten something right, and I'm still intrigued by Astrology.

That is a far leap from saying Astrology is FACTUAL.

It is an entertainment, and an insight. The biggest misunderstanding is applying Astrology as if it was real!

There's not much to do to stop people from falling into this trap: People believe what they want to, even in the face of common sense. However, belief in Astrology is not necessarily harmful. So as long as people have a healthy understanding of the applications and purposes of Astrology, no one should be the lesser!

Mind Traps!

There are a few predominant, definable reasoning errors as to why people fall for the "validity" of Astrology in any aspect.

Confirmation Bias:

Definition; Only taking into account information that verifies a pre-existing belief.

One of the most obvious "mind traps" one can fall into with Astrology is only considering the information that does seem true. When browsing horoscopes or analyzing one's natal chart, it is much easier and more interesting to find the information or predictions which strike us as accurate. Even if the information is overgeneralized, people can take it and interpret it to be personal and applicable. It's very easy to get lost in the few startling coincidences and ignore the larger portion of ambiguity! However, without taking into account all of the misses (or too general of statements to be striking) you are not getting the whole picture of Astrology. The entire point is to attempt to be as overarching and inclusive as possible, to fool you into finding "accuracy"! So watch out!

Availability Heuristic:

Definition; If it is easier to remember, it is more likely true/prevalent.

This may seem a bit of a stretch but reason with me here. Have you ever been asked to describe yourself? It's hard! Turning back to Astrological "truisms" that define one's personality it's a lot easier to define oneself. You can just reach into the prepackaged box of adjectives and slap one on, no qualifications or thought needed, simply by the laundry list given to you by the stars. It's pretty handy dandy in moment's of need to recall "information" about yourself.

Self-Serving Bias:

Definition; Using only information selected because it benefits oneself, at a personal level or otherwise.

Not a lot of Astrological descriptions are framed negatively. Why? Because that way less people would enjoy them! Nobody wants to hear bad things about themselves. Take me, for example. Being the triple-primary-planetary Aquarius I am (just go with me here) I am creative, popular, aloof, flowing, well-spoken, etc etc. Who doesn't want to hear that? Even if it's not necessarily true it's flattering. Even the negatives are put gently--rather than being callous or insensitive, Aquarius is described as "detached" and "individualistic". They mean the same thing, but the connotations are different. Astrology is a form of flattery and self indulgence. It is likely a lot of followers of Astrology believe in it partially for the ego-boost it gives them. This is not to say using Astrology as an ego-boost is bad, only that it doesn't validate Astrology at all.

How should I consider Astrology?

The point of this blog isn't to sully the face of Astrology or render it useless. It is only to discover the misconceptions surrounding it.

While Astrology shouldn't be labeled as is a "science." While it has objective, measurable elements i.e. the literal location of the different constellations compared to time and place of birth, the conclusions drawn from these figures hold no bearing to either personality or fortune. It should be common knowledge that all factors of personality come from genetics and environment, not some cosmic benevolence. And for predicting future events: well, no one can ever quite do that.

Can we still use Astrology then? I think so. As long as we don't take it seriously.

Horoscopes can help us cope with the unknown. We may be nervous about an upcoming job interview, and a reassuring (albeit vague) suggestion from a horoscope may be just what we need to boost our confidence. As long as we are not revolving our actions around the horoscope, they can be used as tools of self assurance.

As for the birth and natal charts, there's nothing wrong with trying to discover oneself. They are a tool of conversation and intrigue. Perhaps there will be some coincidence that strikes a chord with you, maybe even leading you to consider changing yourself... There are many potential introspective uses for these charts.

In summary: Astrology should be used as a novel form of entertainment, not a valid reference!