the astrological delusion

As an astronomer, I periodically feel the urge to rescue people from astrologers. This urge has been growing stronger because astrology seems to be gaining traction, regardless of what the data has to say.

To me, the biggest issue is that people who give credence to astrology form strong impressions of people (and themselves) based on irrelevant information. It is pretty much the same as judging someone by the color of their skin, their nationality, or their clothing.

I also view astrology as a "gateway belief." If you believe this, you might later believe in conspiracy theories or that a politician might be the right person to fix all systemic problems in my city/country.

I mention politics because I recently saw a politician share a conversation with an astrologer "to better understand 2024". I think he is smart enough to understand that people who appreciate the astrological argument will be more inclined to be convinced by his political arguments.