Nostradamus is often credited with predicting several significant events. Among the most famous are the death of King Henry II. Nostradamus wrote, “The young lion will overcome the older one, on the field of combat in a single battle; he will pierce his eyes through a golden cage, two wounds made one, then he dies a cruel death.” This is believed to describe the death of King Henry II of France, who died from injuries sustained in a jousting match when a lance pierced his eye.
Another reads, “The blood of the just will commit a fault at London, burnt through lightning of twenty threes the six: The ancient lady will fall from her high place, several of the same sect will be killed.” Some interpret “twenty threes the six” as 66, linking it to the Great Fire of London in 1666.
One of the more controversial predictions was the rise of Adolf Hitler. Nostradamus wrote of “Hister,” which some believe to be a reference to Hitler. The quatrain mentions a “child of Germany” who would come to power and bring great suffering.
However, not all of Nostradamus’s predictions hold water. Many are so vague that they can be twisted to fit almost any event. For example, he wrote of global conflict in 2025. Nostradamus’s quatrains are often interpreted to predict wars and disasters. One such prediction for 2025 suggests “cruel wars” and the return of an ancient plague. These are generic enough to apply to various situations and lack specific details. Though some people claim it is accurate (apart from the date) when you think about the Covid pandemic and the war between Ukraine and Russia and Israel and Hamas. It conveniently leaves out various other conflicts and major global health problems.
Another prediction for 2025 involves a massive asteroid threatening Earth. While this makes for a thrilling narrative, there is no scientific evidence to support such a claim. Yet people have been claiming that the risk of an asteroid strike, that I wrote about last week is evidence to support the prediction, even though the dates are wrong.
From a scientific standpoint, predicting the future with any degree of accuracy is virtually impossible. The future is inherently uncertain and influenced by countless variables. Scientific methods, such as statistical analysis and algorithmic forecasting, can offer probabilities and scenarios but cannot guarantee specific outcomes.
So why do people continue to believe in Nostradamus’s predictions? The answer lies in our psychological makeup. Humans have a natural aversion to uncertainty and a desire for control. Predictions, even vague ones, provide a sense of order and reassurance.
This in part explains why some people believe in astrology and the power of astrologers to predict the future of individuals.
Astrology has fascinated people for millennia. From daily horoscopes to detailed birth charts, many turn to the stars for guidance. But can astrology truly predict the future of individuals? The scientific evidence says ‘no’. Astrology’s appeal lies in its promise of insight and control. However, this sense of order is more illusion than reality.
Scientific scrutiny reveals that astrology lacks empirical support. Studies consistently show that astrological predictions and personality assessments are no more accurate than chance. A comprehensive study involving over 2,000 individuals found no correlation between zodiac signs and personality traits. The gravitational forces of distant planets are far too weak to influence human behaviour, and the constellations themselves are arbitrary groupings of stars invented by humans with no inherent meaning.
Astrology’s claims have not withstood rigorous scientific testing. Predictions based on astrological charts do not consistently come true. Usually, astrological readings use broad statements that can apply to anyone, a phenomenon known as the Barnum effect.
Despite its scientific shortcomings, astrology persists because it taps into deep-seated psychological needs. It provides a framework for understanding oneself and one’s place in the universe. The human brain is wired to find patterns and meaning, even where none exist.
While astrology can be a fun and intriguing pastime, it should not be relied upon for making important life decisions. The future remains a complex interplay of countless factors, far beyond the influence of the stars. As science continues to explore the mysteries of the universe, it reminds us that our destinies are shaped by our actions, not the alignment of celestial bodies.
Dr James Williams is a reader in science education and communication at Sussex University
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