Astrology's effectiveness persists despite the stars being perceived as mute.
Many individuals believe that the present configuration of celestial bodies has a definite impact on their life. Online platforms thrive on this notion by selling predictions of these effects. However, the efficacy of such beliefs primarily lies in the human mind.
It's hard to foresee: AstroTV, a contentious esoteric broadcaster known for astrology, tarot card readings, and "life counseling," will cease its operations at the end of 2024, after two decades of being accused of dubious business practices. Despite the broadcast company shutting down, this phenomenon persists in the digital space, where the demand for prophetic proclamations is virtually limitless. With the esoteric sector generating up to €20 billion in Germany alone, the belief in fortunetelling offers shines as brightly as the stars.
The world becoming more complicated often gives rise to ideas that provide security. The constant social and political changes drive the need for someone who can provide personalized insights into the future. Astrology seems to have the answer to this basic human requirement. This is evidenced by the numbers from Statista: In a survey from 2021, 39% of people said they occasionally consult horoscopes, while over 50% of 18 to 44-year-olds said they truly believed in them.
A fool's gold, astrology is a pseudoscience. Its mere existence does not imply it offers genuine predictions about one's life. Nonetheless, the concept works, albeit differently than anticipated. Human psyche is easily malleable, and astrologers, tarot card readers, and seers exploit this with precision.
Several studies have concluded that astrology lacks any power to predict the future. However, the influence astrology has over people is palpable. Masses of people blindly trust in the horoscopes and predictions peddled by these diviners.
The Barnum effect is a prime example of such deception. It occurs when individuals feel that highly general descriptions apply strongly to them - especially when flattering. The key to this is in the convincing storytelling of these seers, who articulate their messages in a manner that fits the general experience or scenario. As a result, their advice or predictions seem personal.
Commonly, astrologers predict future opportunities, allowing select individuals to broaden their horizons or make life-changing decisions. An example of such universal proclamations: "In the coming weeks, a unique opportunity will present itself, capable of opening new doors for you. It's your call to take this step." This prediction is broad enough to cover a multitude of situations, such as career shifts, personal relationships, or other life-changing decisions. Similarly, messages that emphasize a person's inner strength and ability to overcome challenges resonate with most individuals, leading them to believe in the astrologer's abilities.
Subjects are captivated by such statements due to the Barnum effect and selective perception - the tendency to store information that aligns with our preconceived ideas and dismiss or devalue contradicting information. Consequently, people who believe in astrology often ignore or downplay incorrect predictions, forget them, or focus on the instances where the predictions turn out accurate, ultimately rationalizing them. In some cases, the sunk cost fallacy also comes into play, preventing people from admitting they have invested time, money, or effort into ineffective beliefs.
It's fascinating how these manipulative techniques also apply to questionable groups like cults and their leaders. These individuals are usually incredibly charming and make use of these methods like professionals. By creating ambiguous promises and fueling both fear and hope, followers become emotionally attached to them. Charismatic leaders often come across as authority figures who hold a monopoly on exclusive knowledge and the ability to predict the future or provide spiritual solace. The reasons behind this are much like those already mentioned.
Just like how fleeting TV networks like AstroTV can be, the methods astrologers and psychics utilize to mislead people remain effective. They are even more powerful on social media platforms, where charismatic individuals have a great opportunity for success.
In these times of constant change and uncertainty, relying on solid information and sound judgment is crucial. Searching for security should not lead us astray to fraudsters who claim to have the celestial bodies' ability to determine our fate. In reality, it is not the stars or planets that dictate our future, but our own actions and decisions.
