Debate: Is reincarnation just another superstition?

LOVE WITH THE MYSTIC: ‘There is no scientific basis for reincarnation,’ say experts.

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Belief in numerology

If you believe in numbers then Friday the 13th is really a bad day. Experts say that increasingly as the world becomes uncertain and we live in conditions of turmoil, we seek respite in superstitions. By changing our name spellings and avoiding ‘inauspicious dates’ we assure ourselves that we are in a safer frame.

“Actually we all want to get away from the harsh realities of life. If you believe there is a supreme law governing all of us, there is somebody there to look after us—I guess that sort of helps you,” said Sunita Chabra.

Superstitions give you a mental cushion against uncertainties, problems and everyday turmoil.

“The moment you believe everything is pre destined and pre decided, the necessity of doing efforts, necessity to work for achieving something vanishes,” said Edamaruku.

So is astrology the refuge of the lazy? What useful function does astrology serve?

“Suppose I’m going through tough a rough time. I go to an astrologer and talk about my problem. If he tells me that after two-years all the problems will near a solution or that a better phase will start in my life, I would sail through problems with the assumption and hope that better time waits for me,” said Chabra.

So in a way psychotherapy also deals with astrology, Chabra added.

However, Edamaruku rounded off the discussion by saying that “astrology is a pseudo science but it has no scientific basis.”

Final SMS poll: Is reincarnation just another superstition?

Yes- 34 per cent

No- 66 per cent