Is divination a timeless obsession or a fleeting trend?

In a captivating exhibition at the Bodleian Libraries in Oxford, a range of divination practices spanning centuries is showcased, highlighting humanity's enduring fascination with predicting the future. The exhibition features unique methods such as spider divination, where a tarantula helps choose tarot-like 'leaf cards' to reveal insights. David Zeitlyn, a professor of anthropology at the University of Oxford, is celebrated for his expertise in this field, having undergone rigorous training with indigenous people to become a spider diviner. Alongside him, Dr. Michelle Aroney brings her knowledge of 17th-century astrology, emphasizing that despite the passage of time, the fundamental questions surrounding health and well-being remain consistent among humans across different eras. The collection also includes historical artifacts such as King Richard II's geomancy manuscript and materials related to Joan Quigley, the astrologer for Ronald Reagan. Many influential leaders have historically consulted divination, pointing to its significance in decision-making processes across history. Zeitlyn suggests that it's likely contemporary leaders still engage with these practices in some manner, although this may only come to light when they pen their memoirs in the future.