Question

According to an astrologer, people who were born under a particular star sign are 'basically kind and very intelligent, although because of their modesty, not sufficiently appreciated by others'. To test the truth of this statement, the astrologer asks a group of individuals if this description fits their personality; 95% of the sample agrees that the description is accurate. One of the problems with this enquiry is that:

a) astrology is inherently false, therefore the evidence must be wrong.
b) 'personality' is inherently a misunderstood concept.
c) in this case a 100% agreement is required for acceptable evidence.
d) it is contrary to the principles of controlled observation.

Answer 1

The main problem with the astrologer's inquiry is that it does not align with the principles of controlled observation, basically due to the participation of subjective judgement and the general nature of the statements.

Step-by-step explanation:

One of the problems with the astrologer's enquiry about whether the given personality description fits a group of individuals, where 95% of the sample agreed, concerns the principles of empirical research and controlled observation. The issue here is d) it is contrary to the principles of controlled observation. This statement was likely affirmed by most individuals because the traits are highly general and positive, a phenomenon known as the Forer or Barnum effect, where vague statements are perceived as personally meaningful.

Scientific tests of astrology's predictive power involving statistical methods and tests based on sun sign astrology have routinely come up negative. The distribution of birth dates among people with certain occupations or personality traits does not show any patterns that would support astrological claims. The consensus among the scientific community is that astrology does not have any predictive power over personality or life events. Astrologers today may act like amateur therapists, often saying things clients want to hear, which can provide short-term benefits much like any form of therapy.