The History and Enduring Popularity of Astrology

by Katherine Walker

Whether or not you believe in the predictive powers of astrology, there can be no doubt that the ideas and terminology of stargazing have found their way into our lives and lexicons. From the days of the week to medical terminology, the language of astrology permeates our culture. So when did we first turn to the stars for answers about life on Earth? And why does an ancient practice like astrology continue to captivate us, even as we understand more about the nature of the universe than our ancestors could have ever imagined?

Join Katherine Walker for a six-lecture exploration of astrology in the global West, beginning with its ancient roots and following its permutations across history as it adapted to the needs and interests of its many practitioners. Along the way, you will see why astronomy and astrology were once inextricably connected and you’ll consider the discoveries and influences that split them into divergent ways of thinking about the heavens. You’ll also get a deeper understanding of the four major branches of astrology and the different approaches they take to answering life’s many mysteries. As you explore the different forms of astrology that have taken shape over time, you’ll touch on subjects such as:

· The impact of the Scientific Revolution on astrological thinking.

· The influence of astrology on politics and religion.

· The relationship between astrology and free will.

· Astrology as a form of popular entertainment.

· Astrological symbolism in art and literature, and more.

While astrology has been continuously practiced since ancient times, you will see how different periods saw rises and dips in in the practice’s popularity, with revivals often coinciding with cultural upheavals. From ancient Mesopotamia to the Internet Age, astrology has played a crucial role in our quest to find meaning and coherent patterns for the complex puzzle of human life.

Genres: Audiobook, History, Nonfiction

Audible Audio

Published June 6, 2024

Reviews

[Elentarri · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short collection of lectures that provides a very brief overview of the history of Western Astrology and its continuing influence. Interesting, but too shallow.

[Nikki Edmonds · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5⭐️ I’m not an astrology girlie and I never been, so I’m probably not the best audience for this one. But I enjoy the Audible Great Courses series, so I had to give it a shot. There were some interesting bits of history shared, but overall it just didn’t capture my attention the same way that other topic have in these courses.

[ConfusedMagpie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really good introduction into the topic with objectivity but without dryness. For someone interested in learning about this topic from a historical perspective without getting pandered about its veracity ir lack thereof, this short audiobook is perfect:)

[Klee · Rating 4 out of 5]

The History and Enduring Popularity of Astrology is a short but fascinating exploration of - surprise - the history and lasting appeal of astrology. From ancient civilizations to TikTok horoscopes, astrology has woven itself into human culture in ways both profound and playful.

As a teenager, I was mesmerised by the idea that my destiny could be written in the stars. I still have books on my shelf that attest to this period, and maybe some underlying desire to hold on to the idea that fate is possible. While adulthood’s skepticism has dimmed some of that wonder, I’m still captivated by the power of belief and the ways people turn to the cosmos for meaning.

The lectures delve into five key themes:

How the Scientific Revolution challenged astrological thinking
Astrology’s surprising influence on politics and religion
The ongoing debate between astrology and free will
Its transformation into a form of popular entertainment
Astrological symbolism in art and literature

One of the most intriguing parts? Learning how astrology experienced a resurgence during the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s fascinating how, in times of uncertainty, we seek guidance from the stars.

If you’re curious about astrology’s enduring grip on human imagination, this is a quick and thought-provoking listen!

[Catherine Puma · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really interesting listen, and touches upon many of the aspects of astrology's history and current popularity that I was searching for. I learned more about how the study and marketing of astrological knowledge helped to advance much scientific research, and I appreciated all the references to astrology in literature and historical texts. Topics include:

- the impact of the Scientific Revolution on astrological thinking,
- the influence of astrology on politics and religion,
- the relationship between astrology and free will,
- astrology as a form of popular entertainment, and
- astrological symbolism in art and literature.

While Katherine Walker does not touch upon the popularity of astrology among the queer community that I have noticed happening recently, she does discuss its revival during the 1960's as well as shift from primarily a medieval ivory tower male-dominated field to a modern womanly pastime, especially among millennials. A good, informative listen overall.

[Juan Rivera · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have absolute respect for all human ways of thinking and being. I believe that some may have twisted thoughts that harm others, and they must be contained. But everyone can think as they want. Long live freedom!

However, I cannot understand how anyone can believe in astrology. How can distant stars that can only be seen in a certain way due to optical illusion and that also do not exist anymore, influence the life of a human being?

This course from “the Great courses” (generally very good) tells us about the history of astrology and why it is still relevant. Is it because many people believe in it and pay attention to its “forecasts” and simply make them come true?

A course that is not recommended at all, but you have to learn from everything and everyone.

[Gilbert Stack · Rating 3 out of 5]

The point that sticks with me most clearly after reading this Great Courses text is that astrology has always been with us and probably always will be. It seems impervious to the "scientific mindset". Indeed, in the early centuries of the Scientific Revolution, astrologers successfully co opted science and used it to justify their practice. Royal courts had astrologers well into the modern era. (I seem to recall that Nancy Reagan had an astrologer whose advice influenced her own advice to her husband.) Astrology has a major presence in our literature as well. This is a fascinating introduction to the topic.

[Evil Secret Ninja · Rating 5 out of 5]

interesting I feel like I learned a lot

[Justine · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love astrology: the idea of it, its symbolism, the way it can add another layer of analysis to our lives. So I was really hyped by the course about its history and the reason why it is still popular.

Unfortunately, I wasn't absolutely focused while reading, so I didn't end up getting everything out of this audiobook. I need to reread and take notes, because it was still interesting and I still learnt something. I loved the first chapter(s?) about history and the fact that some kings and/or queens had astrologers, that astrology was considered a science and was, with time, divided from astronomy, which is still considered an "exact" science.

I'll read more about the subject as it's interesting to me.

[Christine]

I love listening about how certain aspects of our daily life have been created and speculation about why they are still popular. Many people not only check their horoscope daily but they literally organize their lives around the predictions. If you are interested in Astrology, or just the historical and social aspects of Astrology, this is likely to be a good addition to your TBR list.