Difference between astrology and astronomy.

Obviously, both astrology and astronomy are associated with celestial bodies that exist in outer space. This brings the two together. But what exactly does each of them mean and how does astrology differ from astronomy? Let's consider these questions.

Definitions

Astrology is a direction that studies the influence of celestial objects on a person and his fate. The history of the origin of this doctrine dates back to the early historical period. Initially, heavenly bodies were associated with mythical gods who rule the world.

Astronomy is the science of the Universe and the cosmic bodies in it. There are two interrelated branches of astronomy: observational (providing data on celestial objects) and theoretical (focused on the construction of various hypotheses and the formation of conclusions).

Comparison

Let us describe the main distinguishing criteria.

Object of research

The focus of astrology is the connection between the cosmic sphere and man. The doctrine puts forward the idea that the whole world is a single system, parts of which are subject to the same laws. So, the movement of objects in the Universe has a direct impact on the development of man and the events occurring with him.

The spectrum of astrology sections is wide enough. Here are some of them:

  1. Natal astrology. It concerns the birth of a person and is devoted to the study of the influence of the luminaries on the characteristics of his character, psychological traits and main trends in his future destiny.
  2. Predictive astrology. In her competence - predictions about events that await a person in the future.
  3. Elective astrology. She specializes in finding favorable moments for all kinds of successful endeavors.
  4. Business astrology. The main emphasis in it is placed on forecasting the processes taking place in the business life of people and the economy.

The difference between astrology and astronomy lies in the fact that astronomy is focused on a deep study of the objects of the Universe, their origin, chemical composition, laws of development, trajectories of motion. Such objects, in particular, are stars (including the Sun), planets with their satellites, nebulae, asteroids, etc. The result of such studies are new discoveries that contribute to the development of technological progress.

Applied methods

Astrological activity as the main method uses the compilation and interpretation of astrological charts. A schematic representation of celestial bodies observed at a given unit of time is called a horoscope. At the same time, it is important how exactly the objects are located in relation to each other, the signs of the zodiac and the twelve houses of the horoscope. Based on these data, forecasts and descriptions are made.

Astronomy relies on scientific research methods: observation, measurement of quantities, spectral analysis, verification of the reliability of information in laboratories. The laws of physics and mechanics are used, mathematical calculations are made. If in the eyes of astrologers celestial bodies are endowed with special characteristics, as if arising from their essence, then for astronomers these bodies are ordinary objects with real, proven properties by careful study.

Official

What is the difference between astrology and astronomy from the standpoint of modern science? It is believed that astrology is akin to magic and esotericism, since it does not operate with objective facts and evidence. Despite many attempts to give astrology a physical basis, it is recognized as a pseudoscience.

Astronomy, while describing the real world and the regularities existing in it, refers to the exact sciences and is officially recognized.

Table

Astrology Astronomy
Investigates the dependence of the characters and destinies of people on the influence of celestial bodiesInvestigates the space objects themselves and the structure of the Universe
There is no scientific evidence for the statements put forwardAny position is scientifically proven
Unofficial scienceOfficial science
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