posted May 10, 2003 01:35 PM
All theory is based on research, or the testing of knowledge accumulated over time. Thus it provides a necessary structure from which we build, or tear down, or leap away.It is a vital part of learning about any topic. The trick is to not become stuck on any element of a subject - and in astrology, it is necessary to balance theory with tools with experience, compassion and wisdom. It's too easy for humans to practice theories "on paper" (or onscreen!) in isolation, and lose touch with actual people. As in any body of knowledge, a theoretical paradigm will be challenged by individual research in the field, and this is good, IMO.
Also some of us are better constituted to do research and develop theory, others to teaching and sharing, so there is room for all of us. The only thing I hate to see is when knowledge goes to waste - when it is not shared - or when people become so "married" to a theory of their own, or that of another teacher/researcher, that they insist blindly that it is the one truth, or develop a (debilitating) dependence on it (or a tool). As there is no one truth, there is no one true theory.
I hope your friends are sharing their discoveries with others in some way. Otherwise, what is the point?
IMHO
Lunargirl