This book outlines the historical and philosophical descent of the belief that the influence of the stars is a factor in human progress. Generally regarded as the world's most ancient science, the record of astrological theory and practice among both Eastern and Western nations is impressive and interesting. The present edition has been revised and enlarged to include additional material on Chinese astrology, the Burmese theory of divination by the stars, and Tibetan belief in the effects of the planets on human life. There have also been additional illustrations from rare and unusual astrological texts. There is considerable information on Greek, Roman and Arabian astrology, and a most curious section on the astrology of the Aztecs.
This work is especially interesting for the wealth of anecdotes involving celebrated persons who have believed in astrology. Many venerated names of recognized leaders in the progress of science will be noted, including Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, and Sir Isaac Newton. The effects of astrology on the development of science, religion, and philosophy are examined, and many surprising facts are brought to light.
Much of the research for this book was derived from rare books and manuscripts in Mr. Hall's remarkable library. In addition to the dramatic unfoldment of the factual side of the subject, readers will find this book an excellent conversation-piece on a highly controversial subject.
About the Author
Manly P. Hall was the founder of the Philosophical Research Society. In over seventy-five years of dynamic public activity, he delivered more than 8,000 lectures in the United States and abroad, and authored countless books, essays, and articles. In his lectures and writings, Manly Hall always emphasized the practical aspects of philosophy and religion as they applied to daily living. He restated for modern man those spiritual and ethical doctrines which have given humanity its noblest ideals and most adequate codes of conduct. Believing that philosophy is a working tool to help the individual in building a solid foundation for his dreams and purposes, Manly Hall steadfastly sought recognition of the belief that world civilization can be perfected only when human beings meet on a common ground of intelligence, cooperation, and worthy purpose.
From The Publisher
An illustrated account of the leading facts of the science of the stars from ancient to modern times, including its development in both the Far East and the Western continents. Especially interesting for the wealth of information involving celebrated persons who believed in astrology, including Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, and Sir Isaac Newton, the effect of astrology on the development of science, religion, and philosophy is also examined. Emphasis is placed upon the astrological theories of the Greeks, Romans, Arabs, Aztecs, and Burmese, as well as a special section on Tibetan divination and astrology.
