Essays on the Foundation of Astrology

C.E.O. Carter’s Essays on the Foundation of Astrology offers a somewhat traditional and refreshingly honest view of his take on the fundamental meaning of astrology. Carter avoids taking a fatalistic stance on our astronomical art, and his openness to new ideas is especially evident in the flexible way he phrases certain elements (good and bad). Through the entirety of this book, the author enlightens the astrological reader by demonstrating a new and insightful perspective.

Book Preface: “During the years of the war, this book was written. Although much of what appears in it will inevitably be similar to what has appeared in my previous works, it is hoped that it may contain some ideas that are worth preserving and have novelty.” However, Carter does take a critical stance, arguing that sceptics should try to be just as open to change and new discoveries as those interested in astrology. This is what he had to say about the discovery of the outer planets, for instance.

When other planets were discovered astrologers were placed in an awkward position. Some took the stand that there was no reason to believe that the ancient rulerships would remain valid for all time. They might be subject to an evolutionary process. Finally there might be twelve known planets, one for each sign. But the notion that the discovery of the “new” planets had disproved astrology is ridiculous, and, when made by those who have not studied the subject- it is made by none others – it is equally presumptuous. The readiness to receive new factors is rather to the credit of astrologers than to their discredit and it would well be for mankind if all organised bodies of thought had shown a like alacrity to accept new discoveries. It is the misfortune of astrology – if truth in any form can be unfortunate – that even when it has been examined by brilliant intellects it has usually been studied only superficially; and minds normally free from prejudice have apparently forgotten this virtue when they engage upon the subject.

Many of Charles C.E.O. Carter’s works, including many slim volumes, are fascinating reads because of his position as the astrological President. Having natal Mercury (the mind) trine Uranus (the free), Carter has an open mind that is willing to consider new ideas. This book is delightful to read because of his vivid descriptions and even-handed take on the planets. Carter discusses the potential problems posed by a compromised Sun and evaluates the stimulus for responding to this threat, with the human response to energy and our lifestyle choices being central considerations. This sums up the central takeaways for any astrology student to internalise and communicate to others. When considering the part of destiny, it becomes clear that the Sun is the horoscope’s driver and the chart’s focal point. The only way to live a truly free and independent life is to become aware of the habits that have been ingrained in us and to make conscious decisions about how we will respond.

The difficulties associated with certain planetary aspects are outlined, and their natures explored, in the author’s discussion of the planets. Even if Venus is in Libra in the 7th house unaspected, according to Carter, there is still the rest of the horoscope to take into account. A planetary value in the horoscope can be either too high (excessive), too low (deficient), or about right, in his opinion. Having favourable natal aspects in one’s horoscope can be compared to being able to go with the flow. The native becomes alienated from his environment due to the “negative” aspects. Consider his thoughts on the best way to explain aspects to astrology clients:

True, those who consult astrologers when in trouble should be prepared to hear the truth, but there are ways of presenting this sometimes disagreeable commodity to persons who are probably already worried and depressed. To tell a consultant that he is faced with a “bad aspect” is likely to impress him with the notion that he is confronted with something that has neither the rime nor reason, but is simply unpleasant, vexatious and perhaps dangerous. To tell him that an approaching aspect is difficult should have quite a different effect. It implies that there will be a job to do or a problem to solve, not just brute disaster ahead. It is a challenge, not a crude threat.

With confidence, Carter explores the question of how accurately the houses reflect personalities. Do the houses just serve as a “backdrop” for the natal chart, or are they more significant than that? Planets in Leo have the same capacity to connect with children in the physical sense as those in the 5th house. Carter moves on to the different house systems and discusses his various criticisms and preferences.

Any reader interested in learning more about the stars and zodiac can benefit from this book.

One of the first lessons that an intelligent student learns is that he cannot classify nativities as good and bad by adding up the number of allegedly benefic and malefic aspects. The problem involves the philosophy of life which any particular individual may adopt. In other words, what does he mean by “good” and “bad”? This we cannot answer for him; but it seems a fact that most of those whom the generality of mankind acclaim as “great” or even as “successful” have mixed figure of birth. Constructive aspects showing their powers of achievement; obstructive formation showing the difficulties they had to surmount in order to win their titles to applause. Very harmonious nativities do not seek to perform deeds of derring-do [action displaying heroic courage]; they are quite happy as they are.