Astrology, Science and Culture

Pulling down the Moon

Roy Willis, Patrick Curry

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English

Berg Publishers
01 February 2004

Society & Social Sciences; Cultural studies; Popular science; Astrology

Mainstream science has long dismissed astrology as a form of primitive superstition, despite or perhaps even because of its huge popular interest. From daily horoscopes to in-depth and personalized star forecasts, astrology, for many, plays a crucial role in the organization of everyday life. Present-day scholars and scientists remain baffled as to why this 'pseudo-science' exercises such control over supposedly modern, rational and enlightened individuals, yet so far they have failed to produce any meaningful analysis of why it impacts on so many lives and what lies behind its popular appeal. Moving beyond scientific scepticism, Astrology, Science and Culture finally fills the gap by probing deeply into the meaning and importance of this extraordinary belief system. From the dawn of pre-history, humankind has had an intimate connection with the stars. With its roots in the Neolithic culture of Europe and the Middle East, astrology was traditionally heralded as a divinatory language. Willis and Curry argue that, contrary to contemporary understanding - including that of most astrologers - astrology was originally, and remains, a divinatory practice. Tackling its rich and controversial history, its problematic relationship to Jungian theory, and attempts to prove its grounding in objective reality, this book not only persuasively demonstrates that astrology is far more than a superstitious relic of years gone by, but that it enables a fundamental critique of the scientism of its opponents. Groundbreaking in its reconciliation of astrology's ancient traditions and its modern day usage, this book impressively unites philosophy, science, anthropology, and history, to produce a powerful exploration of astrology, past and present.

By: Roy Willis, Patrick Curry
Imprint: Berg Publishers
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 234mm, Width: 156mm, Spine: 13mm
Weight: 320g
ISBN: 9781859736876
ISBN 10: 1859736874
Pages: 176
Publication Date: 01 February 2004
Audience: College/higher education , General/trade , Primary , ELT Advanced
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active

Roy Willis Emeritus Fellow in Social Anthropology,University of Edinburgh Patrick Curry Associate Lecturer, Bath Spa University College

Reviews for Astrology, Science and Culture: Pulling down the Moon

'Astrology, Science and Culture"" is a pioneering work that brings a postmodern perspective to this ancient subject...I highly recommend this thought provoking work for anyone trying to find a new approach to conceiving of anomalous phenomena.' Journal of Scientific Exploration 'When the definitive history of astrology in the late modern age is finally written, 'Astrology, Science and Culture' will no doubt be quoted as an important source text' Aries 'A stimulating contribution to a methodological reflection on astrology's place in history... recommended to everyone interested in astrology - in both camps.' Kocku von Stuckrad, University of Amsterdam 'I found myself won over on many of the skillfully elaborated points and paradigm-challenging insights.' Jane Riddler-Patrick, The Scientific and Medical Network