by Daniel Brouse
Astronomy is firmly grounded in science, whereas astrology is not. Advocating astrology undermines scientific understanding and fosters false beliefs. A notable example of the harm caused by astrology was the long-held belief that the Sun revolved around the Earth. Similarly, some Indigenous peoples of the Americas relied on the Moon’s cycle to calculate time. While practical in some contexts, this approach lacked the precision of modern astronomical methods and, more importantly, hindered the transition from a hunter-gatherer lifestyle to an agricultural society.
The Sun and the Moon are the only celestial objects with a significant influence on Earth, though the Moon’s impact pales in comparison to that of the Sun. The Sun’s heliosphere serves as the most critical protector of the solar system. Ultimately, one would benefit far more, both psychologically and socially, by embracing and advancing scientific knowledge.
The real anti-science issue stems from politics and selfishness, with religion also playing a significant role. Ironically, many religions denounce astrology as sorcery or the work of the devil, when in reality, both are rooted in false beliefs. This is where the false belief begins: “The issue with astrology is that the planets, etc., are metaphorical representations of energetic forces within a holistic framework.” The cosmos are not representations of energetic forces. This argument is akin to trying to prove the existence of God. By the logical Law of Identity, God does not “exist” as a definable entity. Similarly, under the same law, so-called “energetic forces” do not exist as tangible realities. These false beliefs—whether in religion, astrology, or other metaphysical constructs—foster ignorance, arrogance, and intolerance.
Humans interact with and experience the fundamental forces of nature, but they do not inherently “possess” them in the sense of generating or controlling them. Here’s how humans relate to the fundamental forces of nature:
- Gravity
- Humans experience gravity as a force that keeps them grounded on Earth. Every object with mass, including humans, exerts gravitational force, but it’s negligible compared to celestial bodies like Earth.
- Electromagnetic Force
- Humans interact with the electromagnetic force in various ways. Our nervous systems use electrical signals for communication, and our bodies generate weak electromagnetic fields. Electromagnetic forces govern the behavior of atoms and molecules in our bodies, enabling chemical reactions and cellular functions.
- Strong Nuclear Force
- This force holds protons and neutrons together in the nucleus of atoms. While humans don’t “possess” this force, it is fundamental to the structure of the atoms that make up our bodies.
- Weak Nuclear Force
- Responsible for certain types of radioactive decay and subatomic processes. Like the strong force, it operates at the atomic level, indirectly influencing humans as part of the natural processes that sustain the universe.
Forces Humans Can Influence:
Humans can harness and manipulate some natural forces, such as:
- Electromagnetism (e.g., through technology like electricity and magnetism).
- Mechanical Forces (e.g., applying physical forces for movement or building structures).
While humans don’t “possess” these forces in a direct sense, they are an intrinsic part of the natural world and integral to our existence.