Ivor, have you ever studied the work of Dr. Richard Tarnas? He's an American scholar who seems determined to raise astrology from the ghettos of ridicule and public ignorance to a subject more than worthy of academic, scientific attention.

Here's his introductory Introduction to Archetypal Analysis.

The basic principle of astrology is that the planets have a fundamental, cosmically based connection to specific archetypal forces or principles which influence human existence, and that the patterns formed by the planets in the heavens bear a meaningful correspondence to the patterns of human affairs on the Earth. In terms of individuals, the positions of the planets at the time and place of a person's birth are regarded as corresponding to the basic archetypal patterns of that person's life and character.

THe rest of the article explores the nature of archetypes, the question of determinism vs. free will, and why/how astrology works. And here's an excerpt from his latest book, which explores the historical correlations between the movement of the planets and major worldly events/upheavals.

Cosmos and Psyche (pdf format)

Just wondered if you've any insights to share about Tarnas' illumninating work, Ivor.