The Controversiality and Rise in Popularity of Zodiac Signs

In Western astrology, astrological signs are the twelve 30 degree sectors of the celestial sphere, also known as an ecliptic. It starts at the vernal equinox or, the First Point of Aries. The order of the zodiac signs are established based on the annual path that the sun, as in birthdays. The corresponding signs based on birthdays goes in the order of Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio, Sagittarius, Capricorn, Aquarius, and Pisces. Each of the signs have their own strengths and weaknesses, desires, attitudes toward life and people, and own specific traits. By analyzing the projection of the position of planets, the Sun and the Moon on the Ecliptic at birth, astrology gives a glimpse of people’s basic personality traits and preferences, as stated in Stars Like You Astrology.

The topic of astrology can be controversial to some, because it is based on certain beliefs and ideologies. In day to day life, people may believe a way they are acting or their emotions are based on the zodiac group they fit in. On the other hand, people believe that it is unscientific and just an excuse to why people feel the way they do. According to Belief Net, some have claimed that astrology is supported by evidence, but typically it is found that positive experiences within astrology allow people to have stronger feelings towards that matter. Megan Bailey of Belief Net states that scientific testing has found no evidence of having explanatory power for describing the universe. 

Since the outbreak of the Covid pandemic, many people have been turning to astrology for answers to ease their curiosity in this uncertain world. Carl Jung, a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who used astrology to guide his work stated, “In cases of difficult psychological diagnosis, I usually get a horoscope in order to have a further point of view from an entirely different angle. I must say that I very often found that the astrological data elucidated certain points which I otherwise would have been unable to understand.” According to Pan Macmillan, in recent years it seems more people are turning to astrology and studying horoscopes in search of a deeper meaning. 

As one looks deeper to ultimately improve and understand ourselves, zodiac signs can be seen as providing a template to help comprehend who others and ourselves are on a more meaningful level. In a 2014 study by the National Science Foundation in America, they found that scepticism around astrology was decreasing, which is due to the fact that a new generation is embracing it with open arms. The study also showed that more than half of 18-24 year olds believe astrology is a scientific tradition. Astrology has been controversial since the 2nd millenium BC, but in hindsight, there is no solid evidence regarding these controversies, according to Vedic astrologers. 

As a final observation, astrology is a billion dollar industry worldwide, according to The New York Times. Technology has allowed for more analysis and the accessibility allows for in depth research throughout these signs. The ongoing Covid pandemic, which has wreaked havoc worldwide, has caused astrology to become more popular since the uncertainty leaves many in doubt, according to The Atlantic. To some, it may be something of no interest, and to others, it certainly helps inspire a sense of control. According to Zing Tsjeng of The Guardian, “My personal belief is that people tend to turn to mysticism, spirituality and the occult in uncertain times.” she suggests. For many, astrology gives ways of interpretation, interest, and a sense of curiosity in this uncertain world.