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FROM
THE EDITOR IN CHIEF
Astrology
is an enticing temptress. Few can resist its charms, specially in India
where it is deeply embedded in our culture. At the time of birth there
is the question of horoscopes, followed by their matching at the time
of marriage and then there are astrologers to guide you at every step
of your life depending on the extent of your belief. That is all very
well as it is a matter of personal choice. But when the state decides
that astrology should be treated as a science and taught in our institutions
of higher learning at public expense, it raises some larger questions.
Should astrology be treated as a science? Should the state be encouraging
the study of such a regressive subject?
The controversy over the introduction of new
degree courses in astrology brings to the forefront an essentially modern
ambiguity about the field. In ancient times, astrology was closely connected
with the pure science of astronomy. Some of our greatest Vedic scientists
and mathematicians were astrologers too. The decision by the UGC to offer
a university degree in astrology, apparently with the blessings of the
Union human resources development minister, has inevitably raised a political
storm and the Government is being accused of saffronising higher education
while its supporters speak of promoting our traditional knowledge.
What cannot be doubted is the widespread popularity
of the subject. Judging by the number of applicants for the course, astrology
still appears to hold an immense fascination for Indians no matter how
much we modernise. It all boils down to the conflict between science and
faith and what we set greater store by. Senior Editor Sumit Mitra, Reporter
Shuchi Sinha and seven bureaus countrywide explored various aspects of
the astrology debate. There remains little doubt in their mind that astrology
with its emphasis on individual interpretation can hardly constitute a
science. Says Sinha: "Although astrology has some empirical basis,
it also blends subjectivity and mythology."
Sadly, at a time when the world is coming to
terms with the upheavals of new technology, we remain obsessed with astrology.
Perhaps only the stars can redeem us.
(Aroon
Purie)
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