Astrologers and others who make use of astrology are often asked this question.  Be it a family member, friend, acquaintance, co-worker, or random people one meets around town – the question is asked: "Do you believe in astrology?"  Sometimes those who would seek to deride astrology insert the word "really" in the question.

On the surface, it's a simple yes or no question – but to answer it effectively one must delve deeper. As an astrologer, I always take this question as an opportunity to educate the asker of the question.  I have several answer beginnings that I use – which one I use is dependent on quickly sizing up the person asking the question.

Each of these answers (most of which are questions themselves) are designed to shift the thinking pattern of the person asking the question – to make them more receptive to what you are going to say after the initial response.

Let's take a look at a few examples:

Do you believe in Spanish?  This gives one the opportunity to describe astrology as a complex, symbolic language that is capable of communicating important information to those who speak the language.

Do you believe in a screwdriver?  Here is a chance to describe astrology as a tool used to perform a specific function.  Belief in the screwdriver is not required for it to function effectively.

Do you believe in the Internet?  Given the pervasiveness of online life today, this answer can open the door for discussion of astrology's huge scope, diversity and complexity.  One can find just about anything on the Internet, and astrology can be applied to just about anything.

Do you believe in roadmaps?  This answer gives one the opportunity to begin discussing fate and free will – the map is there, but each traveler chooses his or her own route.

Do you believe in music?  Here one has the chance to make a clear analogy between astrology and music.  Each discipline has a mathematical, physical basis but requires artistry to reach fulfillment.

Define "astrology." Now, this can be really useful – if the person asking assumes astrology is tarot, mediumship or UFOs,  there is a chance to correct them.  When asked for my own definition of astrology I use: "The study of the positions and aspects of celestial bodies in correlation with natural earthly occurrences and human affairs."

Define "believe." This can make the questioner go "huh?" and really stop to think about what they really are asking.  Usually, there is a chance to rephrase the question as "Do you find astrology useful?"

What do you believe? Here one can gain vital information from the questioner – where exactly are they coming from?  Are they approaching the question of astrology from a scientific/materialist perspective or a religious perspective?  Then one can tailor a response more concisely.

Some other questions could be: Do you believe in weather?  Do you believe in science? Do you believe in your car? Do you believe in your telephone?

What one will impress upon the questioner by using any of these answers is that astrology is not something that requires belief to be effective.  Education should be the main object of the astrologer when confronted by the question.