The History of Astrology

Astrology emerged some time before 3000BC in Mesopotamia1 and can be traced back 6000 years to Sumerian times. Star charts that include astrology have been discovered from ancient Egypt circa 4000 BC, and by 800 BC the twelve principal constellations were used in the Chaldeana Zodiac2.

Originally astrology and astronomy were the same thing—the position and movement of celestial bodies were considered part of the supernatural world of the heavens.

During the Renaissance period (14th to 17th Century) this field of study slowly began separating into two distinct areas—the scientific study of celestial bodies (astronomy) and the supernatural interpretation of the science (astrology).

By the time of Shakespeare the legitimacy of astrology was subject to much debate. Shakespeare himself gave some of his characters belief in judicial astrology, but apparently associated this belief with light-mindedness. His own viewpoint seemed to be that astrology was nothing more than a convenient way to divest oneself of personal responsibility1.

Examples of arguments from the period include John Chamber's Treatise against (1601) and Christopher Heydon's rebuttal Defence (1603). However it was Sir Isaac Newton's Principia mathematica (1687) which delivered the strongest argument against astrology, eschewed any form of supernatural involvement and showing how natural forces account for celestial movements.

In modern times astrology continues to enjoy huge popularity, despite being widely criticised by skeptics. As many as one third of all Americans believe the stars affect their lives and It is claimed that many influential people in the worlds of business and politics use astrology as an aid to decision making3.