In my first astrophysics class, I introduced the history of astronomy. I highlighted an interesting fact: a few centuries ago, astrology and astronomy were almost the same. Today, we see astronomy as a science, while astrology is considered more of a belief system. One student disagreed, insisting that astrology is a science too. To my surprise, many classmates supported him. These students had spent five years studying science, and some aimed to become teachers and researchers.
This issue isn’t just in my classroom. Recent reports show that astrology’s popularity is soaring. Technology is a big part of this shift. Nowadays, you don’t have to visit an astrologer in person. Just a few taps on your phone can connect you with astrologers. One popular Indian app boasts over 80 million users and connects them with a network of 40,000 astrologers. Most of these users are young, like my students, and many rely on AI features for personalized readings.
It’s not just India; about 70% of Americans also believe in astrology. Even in China, where such beliefs might seem out of place, young people are flocking to astrology. What’s driving this resurgence? While technology should make us more grounded in reality, it seems to have made astrology easier to access instead.
Humans have always craved certainty about the future. Before modern times, worries about natural disasters and economic challenges consumed people. Now, many feel anxious about jobs and their ability to achieve their dreams. Added to that are the timeless challenges of relationships. This combination creates a group of anxious individuals searching for answers in astrology.
In times of stress, people seek comfort. Traditionally, communities and religions offered support, but as social connections weaken, individuals often turn to astrology for solace. During the Covid pandemic, many astrology apps saw massive increases in users. A similar trend occurred after the Soviet Union collapsed, when people turned to astrology and tarot for guidance in uncertain times.
I tried to explain to my students how astrology plays with human psychology. I shared a thought from mathematician John Paulos: horoscopes are based on celestial positions at birth, but the influence of heavenly bodies is minuscule compared to the gravity of someone like a doctor delivering a baby. It was a humorous point, but it didn’t change their minds.
This growing belief in astrology suggests a decline in scientific thinking. An example of this is when people performed rituals to ward off Covid-19, despite the advances in science and technology. Ironically, as more people enter schools and colleges, they still cling to these beliefs.
India is unique in formally recognizing scientific temper in its Constitution. Yet, simply increasing educational enrollment or mentioning scientific inquiry isn’t enough to foster a genuine scientific mindset among citizens.
Shobhit Mahajan teaches physics at Delhi University. These views are personal.
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