Divination isn’t scientific, but can it ever be therapeutic?

Divination isn’t scientific, but can it ever be therapeutic?

Author: ABC Australia July 26, 2025 Duration: 34:04

Love it or hate it, there are reasons you might read your star sign and relate to what it says about you as a person.

We all fall into cognitive traps — but if we’re aware of them, is it such a bad thing to indulge in your daily horoscope, or a tarot card reading?

Today, we delve into the occult, to understand why some people seek messages from the universe, and if it can play a role in therapeutic care.

If you want to hear more about otherworldly beliefs, check out our episode Spooky science: What's behind a paranormal experience?

And Soul Search also has an episode called Astrology and tarot — telling the future, or connecting with the present?

Guests:

Professor Susan Krauss WhitbourneProfessor Emerita of Psychological and Brain Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst

Ryan FindlayPsychotherapist and tarot reader

Credits:

  • Presenter: Sana Qadar
  • Reporter/producer: Shelby Traynor
  • Senior producer: James Bullen
  • Producer: Rose Kerr
  • Sound engineer: Simon Branthwaite

Extra information:

When It Comes to Personality Tests, a Dose of Skepticism Is a Good Thing

Why You Might Not Want to Trust a Personality Test – Psychology Today

The validity of astrological predictions on marriage and divorce: a longitudinal analysis of Swedish register data

Even the stars think that I am superior: Personality, intelligence and belief in astrology

The Power of Rituals – Psychology Today


Ever wondered what's really happening inside your head? Each week, All In The Mind from ABC Australia ventures into the complex landscape of human thought and feeling. This isn't just a dry science lecture; it's a thoughtful exploration of the experiences that shape us, hosted by curious minds who know how to tell a compelling story. You'll hear conversations that bridge the gap between scientific research and the messy reality of daily life, delving into topics as diverse as the mechanisms of memory, the challenges of breaking an addiction, or the ethical puzzles posed by artificial intelligence. The discussions are grounded and accessible, making the inner workings of the brain relevant to anyone interested in health, behaviour, or simply understanding themselves a little better. By tuning into this podcast, you join a community considering how our mental universe influences everything from our personal fitness to our social connections. It’s a weekly opportunity to pause and reflect on the fascinating forces-both biological and psychological-that drive what we do and who we are. The production brings together expert insights with genuine human stories, creating a space where complex ideas about the mind and behaviour are unpacked with clarity and depth.
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