By Izzy Connors ’18

I am one of those people who actually believes in horoscopes. This doesn’t mean I’m stupid or gullible or superstitious. I’m fully aware that horoscopes aren’t based on much concrete logic, but people who interpret horoscopes as attempts at making concrete predictions are mistaken. After all, horoscopes are written by average people who make money from doing so. So why, you might ask, do I believe in these seemingly arbitrary predictions?

Well, to begin, they are actually based on some logic. According to Merriam-Webster.com, astrology is, “the divination of the supposed influences of the stars and planets on human affairs and terrestrial events by their positions and aspects.” In other words, the science behind horoscopes is that one’s personality is influenced by the position of the stars and planets at the time they were born. “It has been determined that during the daytime, the Sun would appear to “enter” or pass through a different constellation each month,” an Independent.co.uk article explains. “These twelve constellations are called the Zodiac.” The idea that there is some interconnected universal consciousness does sound ridiculous, I’ll admit, but there have been countless studies that have attempted to prove it.

“A Japanese study found that people born December through February have lower agreeableness,” reported Psychology Today. “A Swedish study found that (at least in women), February/March/April birthdays led to increased novelty-seeking behavior,” it continued. “Another study reported that summer-born males are less conscientious.”

Speaking from personal experience, I definitely exhibit many of the traits of a typical Pisces: artistic, compassionate, reserved. And my friends who are Leos are definitely typical Leos. And my dad, who’s an Aries, is definitely incisive and impatient like your classic Aries. I know it could be a coincidence, but go onto Horoscope.com and see if your personality aligns with the one dictated by your zodiac sign.

I know the idea that some grouping based on the alignment of the stars could dictate one’s entire character sounds ridiculous, but I think of it as a fun and entertaining way to instill hope in one’s future. Horoscopes say things like “spend a lot of time with your parents this week” or “put a lot of effort into your work over the next few days.” They’re a subtle way to spread positive sentiments, and through their predictions, which are almost always positive, they provide a sense of hope and purpose. They provide a way to connect with others. Although the logic that astrology stems from isn’t the most concrete, zodiac horoscopes are merely a fun way to see the future and the people around you.

Still don’t believe me? Typical Libra…