Pluto’s entrance into Aquarius in March 2023 has coincided with remarkable technological advancements that have swept across society. Pluto, known as the planet of transformation, has the ability to reconcile the realms of chaos and order within both the world and ourselves, leading to a sense of wholeness. Aquarius, an independent and freedom-loving sign, governs the field of technology. It compels us to question how we can liberate ourselves from our own limitations. So, how does all of this relate to the recent rise of AI?
Throughout history, technology has always been designed to alleviate burdens and provide us with the freedom to explore new possibilities. Each technological advancement has offered us opportunities to delve into deeper aspects of our being as we evolve as a species. Less than a century ago, societal roles dictated our lives, leaving little room for self-exploration compared to the freedom we have today.
It is amusing to think about what our grandparents would have said if someone suggested practices like breathwork or yoga to ease their burdens during the Great Depression. They would likely have responded with confusion, as they were unaware of any other way of life. Their focus was on fulfilling basic needs and taking care of their families without the luxuries we have today, such as readily available Whole Foods or Amazon deliveries.
In the 1920s, gathering food, milk, and eggs could occupy an entire day. Today, technology takes care of these tasks for us. Our grandparents didn’t contemplate the meaning of life, our place in the Universe, or the why and how of our existence because their faith provided answers.
As technology rapidly progressed throughout the 20th century, societal roles evolved, granting individuals more freedom to make personal choices about their lives. Computer technology, in particular, experienced astonishing growth as we entered the 21st century.
For those of us born in the seventies and raised in the eighties, comparing the past and present is a fascinating perspective. We may even long for the simplicity of the eighties that our children will never experience. The younger generation, having grown up in a world where technology is the norm, lacks the before-and-after perspective that their parents possess. There is a sense of ambiguity surrounding what might be lost when we rely so heavily on technology.
For example, as a 15-year-old, I would have had 150 phone numbers memorized. Today, I have to look up my son’s phone number when filling out paperwork. However, when I consider the value that technology brings, I find myself less nostalgic about my Talking Heads records and Pearl Jam tapes. I appreciate the convenience of having access to every Beatles song ever released on Apple Music.
On March 23rd, 2023, Pluto made its first entry into Aquarius in 240 years. Coincidentally, ChatGPT also released an update on the same day, allowing plugins that enable ChatGPT to access up-to-date information, perform computations, and utilize third-party services. While ChatGPT was initially launched in November 2022, this recent release, coinciding with Pluto’s move into Aquarius, transformed the product and captured the attention of the culture. Everyone was discussing the rise of AI and its implications for society.
Speculations about the positive transformation AI could bring to the workplace and concerns regarding its potential to further diminish our ability to think for ourselves were commonplace. As with any new technology, there are gains and losses to consider. It is our responsibility to determine how to use AI appropriately. We can draw parallels to everyday appliances like refrigerators and washers/dryers. It’s difficult to imagine living without these conveniences today. Yet, before the advent of refrigeration, we were more mindful of food waste, sourcing only what we needed and ensuring it was consumed before spoiling. Now, my kids open a full fridge and claim there’s “nothing to eat.” Does this mean we should give up refrigeration in the name of sustainability? Of course not. However, it is incumbent upon us to make an effort to be less wasteful. The key lies in finding balance rather than adopting extreme resolutions.
The same principle applies to ChatGPT. Should we ban it due to potential misuse? No, but we can set an example of using it with integrity and hold society accountable if it is used irresponsibly. While a high school student seeking an easy A might save time by using ChatGPT for a book report, they should be cautious. Pluto represents consequences in all forms, and it is wise to resist the temptation to utilize this technology to cut corners.
Pluto in Aquarius presents an opportune time to reassess our reliance on technology. By integrating both the tried and true methods and the new, we can achieve balance.
For instance, regenerative farming combines modern technology with ancient agricultural wisdom, offering a solution for carbon sequestration. While modern advances offer various products and pills to enhance sleep quality, stepping outside in the morning to bask in sunlight can help rebalance our circadian rhythms, leading to deeper and more restful sleep. When combined with a Sleepnumber bed that allows adjustment of mattress firmness, our sleep hygiene becomes stronger than if we relied solely on technology.
We need not fear technology as long as we consciously incorporate the wisdom passed down by our ancestors. This approach allows for growth and evolution without stagnation or the destruction of the environment and culture caused by technology.
Harmony requires balance in all aspects of life. Regardless of one’s faith or spiritual beliefs, various schools of thought have demonstrated the need for collective efforts to restore balance when we veer too far from center. With Pluto in Aquarius, we are being compelled to make peace with the shadows and dispel fears regarding their perceived implications.
Astrology, at its core, is never about causing harm but rather seeking balance, and the rise in AI is the ideal time for all of us to practice just that.