The main problem that astrology faces in gaining a degree of credibility is opposition from the scientific community. The common view is that whatever cannot be demonstrated through the scientific method is either invalid, or does not exist. If astrology can't prove its validity through application of the scientific method, it is patently false. It is the scientific method that is the final arbiter. Conclusions based on experience, observation and inner conviction are not to be trusted.
Only when results have been verified with empirical proof produced by impartial scientific observers are we to have confidence. However, most of our knowledge of the world comes to us through personal experience, and not through the scientific method. As valuable as the scientific method has been, it is but one of any number of valid means for acquiring knowledge. Accordingly, it should only be applied to those areas of inquiry that prove susceptible to it.
The history of science is full of innovative thinkers who have remained theoretically opposed to their colleagues, despite either the conviction of their colleagures or pressure from the scientific community. Some scientists now recognize that there are innumerable measurable effects that have no measurable physical cause, and no plausible physical explanation. Astrology integrates us with a level of knowing that goes deeper than the rational mind. In this way, if we concern ourselves less with the mechanics and more with the content, we may come to appreciate astrology as one more valuable tool in the search for truth and knowledge.
Astrology as practised is less immune to criticism. Unfortunately, it is these very contemporary astrological practises with which most people are familiar. Advertisements in tabloids by so-called famous astrologers promise: All the money, the love, the happiness you deserve. Of course astrology can't make good on such promises. Television commercials make similar pitches and provide immediate readings over the telephone with charges by the minute. Such practices are driven solely by profit motives and do nothing to enhance the image of astrology. Perhaps the most familiar type of astrological prediction is provided by the newspapers. The daily horoscope provides predictions and advice for each sign of the zodiac. These blanket predictions are great fun, but are not intended to be taken seriously.
