Traditional versus "modern" astrology
214red noted an important area of discussion among astrologers, namely the use and practice of various and highly different forms of astrology. Just off the top of my head, I can think of several broad areas, each of which has many distinctly unique sub-areas (and each of them have variants).
** Modern astrology based on natal, progressed and transiting charts.
** Modern astrology based on cyclic charts such as solar and lunar returns, and harmonic charts, locational charts, etc.
** Uranian and midpoint practices which emphasize planetary relationships with less dependence, if any at all, on signs and houses.
** Traditional astrology based on what Minderwiz has been writing about.
** Hellinistic astrology using more ancient methods.
** Joytish or Vedic astrology as practiced originally in India following Alexander the Great's invasion and disruption of culture and historical records.
** Ancient practices of varied nature as practiced in Mesopotamia and other near East cultures, the Eqytians, the Mayans, Chinese methods, etc.
And, all the while one studies and uses some of these methods, new practices are developed, new methods of data presentation are developed that go far beyond circular charts, and cross pollination occurs.
To all of this we have to add an important factor --- the skill/knowledge level of the practicing astrologer. Some of us just look at a chart and read it as if it were already written in text. Further, we adjust our method of reading and interpretation and synthesis depending upon the type of chart being read and relative to the depth and range of questions be asked of us. For beginners or early-studies astrologers this is bewildering.
Yet, the one thing we all have in common is the thrill of seeing a chart and a person merge into one's understanding, followed by the thrill of being able to substantively help someone else. This is the ties that binds us as well as the driving force behind sharing what we know with others just starting on their astrological path. Dave