Usefulness of astrology:
Lachie already mentioned that the universe is an equation.
The universe has many properties, and to get a particular output (outcome), you need particular inputs. To know or predict an outcome you need to know or predict the inputs. Can anyone really believe that planetary motions and the planets themselves can provide the inputs necessary to determine the complex outcomes in human life?
I think that is nonsense, and I think that is why Thao smiled -- she was amused by our simplistic thinking. But at the same time, I wouldn't write off all astrologers. Some, unbeknownst to them, may be stimulating a real spiritual ability while working with the useless astrology charts. Not that this is the best way to stimulate the ability, reasoning logically it's far from it, but it is a form of concentration after all, and it may give a result for certain people. Same reason some people find effective Tarot cards, pendulums, candles.
Some more of why
I think why Thao smiled instead of replying:
On page 163, in the same chapter, "Coming Back 'Home'", the following exchange between Michel and Thao takes place:
‘What do you think of deliberate abortion?’
‘Is it a natural act?’
‘No, of course not.’
‘Then why do you ask - you already know the answer.’
Then on page 167 of the chapter, Thao just smiles to Michel's question
‘Many people believe in the influence of the stars, and follow the signs of the Zodiac. What do you think of that?’
Both questions are of the same type and end in "what do you think of..."?
Thao displays mild annoyance the first time -- "why do you ask", and that's why I think she doesn't reply the second time, but gives a cue with the smile. Based on that and my thoughts I think it becomes clear they likely think astrology has no real value.
Prophecies in the book:
The book does contain prophecies, Meedan, recently you yourself reminded me of something I didn't lend enough importance to. The following sentence
If the Earth disappears, as a result of horrific cataclysms, they assume they will already be dead
is related to the next, which is nothing less than a prophecy:
There, they are making a big mistake, for the source of the coming disasters is the pollution which is growing daily on your planet, and its consequences will be felt very soon - much sooner than you can imagine...
Book title concerns:
Until very recently I also thought since 1998 that "Thiaoouba Prophecy" is the new and final title for the book. Last week I received a copy of "Abduction to the 9th Planet" by Arafura Publishing. It's the latest reprint, from 1999. Here's what the copyright page says:
First published 1993
Reprinted 1994, 1995 (USA).
Reprinted 1997 under the title
Thiaoouba Prophecy.
Reprinted 1999 as
Abduction to the 9th Planet.
Arafura Publishing.
(c) M.J.P. Desmarquet 1993
I also think that Arafura Publishing do not have any intention to re-release it under the title "Thiaoouba Prophecy" -- see the inscription "Once known as
Thiaoouba Prophecy" on the book cover
here. I really love the illustration!
Once a century abduction:
If I remember correctly, Michel says so in the audio interviews. But I think he also said that's approximate.
Hope that helps clear up some of the arguments. But I'd like some clarification on the pork chops, too, Lachie.