Astrology is often perceived as seeming real due to several psychological factors, rather than scientific evidence. Here are a few reasons why people may find astrology convincing, even though it lacks scientific validity:
Confirmation bias: People tend to remember and focus on information that confirms their existing beliefs. When individuals read horoscopes or astrological profiles, they may selectively recall instances where the descriptions match their personalities or experiences, while ignoring inconsistencies.
Barnum effect: Astrology often relies on general and vague statements that can apply to a wide range of individuals. These statements are known as "Barnum statements" or the "Forer effect." People tend to interpret these statements as highly accurate and personally meaningful, even though they are actually applicable to a large number of people.
Self-fulfilling prophecy: Believing in astrology can influence people's behavior and expectations, leading them to act in ways that align with the characteristics ascribed to their zodiac sign. For example, if someone reads that individuals of their sign are adventurous, they may actively seek out new experiences to fulfill that expectation.
Shared cultural and environmental factors: People born in the same month or zodiac sign often share similar cultural, social, and environmental influences. These common factors can shape their behaviors, attitudes, and experiences, leading to perceived similarities among individuals of the same sign.
It's important to note that scientific investigations into astrology have consistently found no empirical evidence supporting its claims. The apparent similarities among people of the same sign are more likely attributed to the factors mentioned above rather than the influence of celestial bodies.