In Iran, fortune-telling and divination have existed since ancient times, but in recent years, this phenomenon has grown significantly, not only among the illiterate, but also among the upper levels of society and politicians. This phenomenon, which many psychologists and social scientists believe has its roots in mental and social insecurity, has become a tool for manipulators to control public opinion and justify political and economic failures. The spread of superstitions in decision-making institutions weakens rationality and leads to inefficiency in management. On the other hand, people’s dependence on these beliefs reduces individualism and responsibility, and strengthens corruption.

To further examine this topic, I have discussed with Kaveh Talebm, a researcher in social studies and a member of the editorial board of the “Society of Evolutionary Psychology” in the field of anthropology and social sciences. This researcher believes that as long as the gap between modern tools and traditional thinking is not filled, belief in superstitions will continue and fortune-telling and prayer will not be done in a traditional way, which will encompass the society’s thinking in modern forms. This author refers to the roots of this belief and says: In the past, societies used divination, fortune-telling, and prayer to “predict the future” and “find solutions to problems”. But in a time when science and empirical data are available, these methods have lost their effectiveness. In response to the question of why some people still resort to traditional and superstitious methods in the modern world, he says: “The answer must be sought in social and psychological factors. Many people, especially

You can read the detailed explanation of the peace talks with Kaveh Talabam in the following.

In your opinion, why do fortune-telling and divination still have supporters in Iranian society?

To answer this question, we must take a deeper look at the historical and psycho-social roots of this phenomenon. Throughout history, humans have interpreted the world from two different perspectives: “logos”, meaning rational and scientific thinking that seeks natural and logical causes for phenomena, and “mythos”, meaning a supernatural interpretation that attributes problems to unseen forces, spells, or fate. In modern societies, scientific and rational thinking has replaced superstition. However, in societies where mythos thinking is still alive, individuals attribute their personal and social problems not to decisions, economic conditions, or psychology, but to unknown and supernatural forces. Divination and fortune-telling find their meaning precisely at this point, as remnants of pre-modern thinking.

Why do people need these beliefs?

Beyond history, these beliefs are a psychological response to anxieties and stresses of life. Humans, in the face of crises and uncertainties, need a sense of control over their lives. When rational and scientific methods are unable to create this sense of control – or individuals do not have access to them – they turn to fortune-telling and prayer. These are a type of anxiety-relieving mechanism that relieves the individual from the responsibility of analysis and decision-making and entrusts the solution to invisible forces.

Furthermore, while material dimensions have entered the modern era, such as roads, bridges, and smartphones, non-material dimensions have not entered to the same extent. Non-material dimensions can have psychological, sociological, educational, and instructional aspects. People have smartphones (meaning modern tools have entered) but on the internet, they search for fortune-telling and superstitions (pre-modern thinking). In schools, physics and chemistry are taught, but scientific methods and critical thinking are not taught. As a result, many individuals, when faced with problems, instead of using logical analysis, still resort to supernatural solutions. As long as the gap between modern tools and traditional thinking is not filled, these beliefs will continue and fortune-telling and prayers will not only remain, but also adapt to new forms (such as digital fortune-telling and online predictions) to align with the modern era.

Has this phenomenon increased in recent years? If yes, what factors have contributed to this trend?

The answer is positive and I can refer to four factors.

Firstly, the Iranian education system emphasizes on memorization rather than critical thinking. Students are not taught how to differentiate between scientific claims and irrational beliefs. This lack, coupled with the absence of problem-solving education, leads individuals to turn to fortune tellers and superstitions in times of crisis. Educated women who resort to these methods are not victims of ignorance, but products of an inefficient education system that reproduces knowledge without critical thinking.

In addition, Iran has embraced modern technology, but not modern thinking. People may use the internet, but still believe in praying for economic problems to be solved. Modern spirituality and philosophical self-awareness have not replaced traditional and superstitious versions, so people still turn to traditional and superstitious beliefs to find answers. The official system promotes science, but has not internalized scientific reasoning.

The economic crisis and escape from social insecurity is the third factor. The increase in unemployment, inflation, and social stress has caused people to seek refuge in the illusion of control over the future in order to reduce anxiety. Meanwhile, scientific psychology in Iran is expensive, inaccessible, and not institutionalized, and fortune-telling and superstition have replaced it as a popular and affordable form of therapy.

New media and the reproduction of superstitions in the digital space are another contributing factor. Fortune-telling and spell-casting have experienced explosive growth on social networks. Instead of promoting awareness, the virtual space has created information bubbles that engulf individuals in their own superstitious beliefs. Instead of doubt and criticism, algorithms feed confirmation and increase dependence.

Now, how can we break this cycle? With “reforming the educational system, teaching critical thinking and scientific methods”, “creating modern alternatives to address spiritual crises”, “widespread and affordable access to scientific psychology” and “controlling superstitious advertisements in the virtual space”…

As long as scientific knowledge does not replace superstition, fortune-telling and divination not only remain, but also grow.

In your opinion, should fortune-telling and divination be considered a form of superstition or can it be examined within the framework of Iranian culture and traditions?

Fortune-telling and divination are a multifaceted phenomenon that cannot be simply categorized as superstition or cultural traditions. This issue has both historical roots and is influenced by current social and psychological conditions. In the past, societies used methods such as astrology, fortune-telling, and divination to predict the future and find solutions to their problems. In a time when scientific knowledge and empirical data were not readily available, these methods served as a form of guidance. However, the problem is that many of these beliefs still exist in society without adapting to the modern world. On the other hand, in today’s world of scientific advancements and widespread information, why do these methods still prevail? The answer lies in social and psychological factors. Many people, especially in times of economic crisis or personal problems, are looking for quick and simple solutions. Fortune-telling and divination provide an immediate answer that may not have a scientific basis, but can bring a sense of calm to the individual. The question now

So, is fortune-telling and divination a cultural tradition? In response, it must be said, yes; it has been a part of our past from a historical and cultural perspective. But can it still meet the needs of today? No; because we now have better scientific and rational tools to solve problems. And is this phenomenon a superstition? From a scientific point of view, yes; because it has no empirical or proven basis. But simply labeling it as a “superstition” does not help solve the problem. It is better to understand the social and psychological roots of this phenomenon and offer rational and useful alternatives for it. Ultimately, we must understand that this phenomenon is more of a social sign than a cultural issue. As long as there is economic and social insecurity and as long as people feel that they do not have control over their lives, these methods will continue to have supporters.

What factors cause people to turn to fortune tellers and diviners? Fear, hopelessness, economic pressures, or emotional issues?

If we want to talk about the deeper roots of this issue, we need to refer to evolutionary psychology. The human mind has evolved throughout history for survival and adaptation to uncertain environments. In the early days of human life, predicting the future and finding patterns was considered a survival advantage. Humans who could interpret signs – even if the interpretation was based on false assumptions – had a better chance of survival. This same mental mechanism continues today as an unconscious desire to find patterns in the unknown. In the modern world, where individuals’ futures are influenced by complex economic, social, and psychological factors, this evolutionary need still remains. In times of crisis, when individuals feel they have lost control over their lives, they seek to regain this sense of control. This is where fortune-telling and divination come in. These methods offer a quick and simple narrative explanation for complex life issues, rather than providing a real solution. An individual who experiences failed relationships may search for the reason behind it not in their own behaviors

We should not ignore the role of digital media in this phenomenon. Fortune-telling and divination have moved away from their traditional forms and entered the digital world. Today, fortune-tellers and diviners have created a wide market using social networks and targeted advertising. Many of them try to make their methods seem scientific by using pseudo-scientific terms such as “negative energy cleansing” or “cosmic codes”. This causes even educated individuals to be influenced, as the language used is no longer the traditional and illogical tone of the past, but is presented in a new and modern form. The key point is that fortune-telling and divination should not be seen simply as a personal superstition, but as signs of a deeper crisis. In societies where social support systems are weak and effective problem-solving methods are not well introduced, people turn to methods that are easy, cheap, and accessible. If we want to change this trend, instead of blaming individuals, we need to provide platforms that address

Does the level of education and general knowledge affect the inclination towards this phenomenon? Is there a specific segment of society that is more interested in it?

The belief that only illiterate people believe in fortune-telling and divination is a simplistic assumption. Research has shown that this phenomenon is prevalent among various social classes, including educated individuals. Of course, the level of education does have an impact on how these beliefs are understood and justified, but it is not the sole inhibiting factor. What is important is the role of social, psychological, and economic factors in shaping this tendency. In societies with high levels of uncertainty and economic pressure, individuals, even with higher education, turn to methods that give them a sense of control over their lives in times of crisis. In a study, it was found that educated women also seek out diviners, not out of ignorance, but as a way to manage anxiety and reduce stress caused by uncertain situations. This shows that the inclination towards this phenomenon is more related to stress, social insecurity, and lack of practical solutions in individuals’ lives rather than their level of education. However, education does have an impact on

From a psychological perspective, what mechanism causes people to trust fortune tellers and diviners?

People’s reliance on fortune-telling and prayer can be shaped by mental errors, psychological needs, and social influences. This issue can be examined from several perspectives:

General sentences that seem specific and accurate: Fortune tellers usually say sentences that are so general that they can be true about anyone. For example: “You are a sensitive person, but you don’t always express your feelings.” “You recently had a problem, but it will get better soon.” When someone hears these sentences, they feel like the fortune teller knows them very well, while these sentences can be true about anyone.

Remembering things that confirm our beliefs: Our brain works in a way that we remember information that confirms our beliefs better. For example, if a fortune teller makes 10 predictions and only one of them comes true, we remember that one and forget the rest of the incorrect predictions. This leads us to gradually believe that the fortune teller is always right.

The need for control and reduction of anxiety: Life is always full of unexpected events. When someone feels like they have no control over the future, they look for a way to find peace of mind. Fortune-telling and prayer create exactly this feeling. Someone who is going through a difficult situation finds a sense of calm by hearing a prediction (even if it is baseless). Knowing that “everything will be okay”, even if it is not true, gives the person a sense of security.

Seeing patterns in meaningless things: Sometimes our brains are designed in a way that we find patterns and meaning in random things. For example, if we look at the clouds, we may see a face in them, even though there are no real faces. The same thing happens in fortune telling, where the fortune teller says vague sentences and people relate them to their lives.

The reason people trust in fortune-telling and prayers is because the human mind works in a way that finds meaning in general statements, remembers things it believes in more, and seeks a way to control and find peace in difficult situations. Fortune-tellers and prayer writers also use these mental characteristics to make their words seem more convincing.

Can it be said that fortune-telling and divination are a form of taking advantage of people’s problems and ignorance?

Yes, but this superstition is not only used by fortune tellers, but it is the result of social conditions that drive people towards these beliefs. As long as people feel insecure and unstable, and as long as social structures do not value scientific and logical thinking, fortune telling and superstition will continue to serve as a psychological and cultural refuge. One of the reasons for the spread of fortune telling and superstition is the lack of sufficient supervision and public education to combat superstitions. In many modern societies, governments are trying to provide real alternatives to these beliefs through critical thinking education, access to psychological services, and supportive policies for vulnerable individuals. However, in societies where these supports are weak, fortune telling becomes a social and cultural refuge.

What impact does this phenomenon have on family and social relationships? Does it weaken or strengthen human relationships?

Fortune-telling and superstitions are like rotten ropes that we cling to in moments of crisis. They may give us a sense of security, but ultimately they defeat us. These phenomena can both strengthen and destroy relationships. On one hand, in communities where these beliefs are shared, a temporary sense of unity and calm is created, like a shelter in a storm that only protects us for a few moments. But why is this shelter full of holes? Because instead of solving the root of the problems, it is only a temporary relief. On a family level, prayer and fortune-telling are like seeds of doubt and mistrust. When a woman hears a fortune-teller say “no one sees you,” she may look at her sister, friend, or even her spouse with a doubtful gaze. When a man hears that his wife has been cursed, he may take on a controlling and pressuring attitude instead of communicating. These vague predictions are like poison for human relationships and slowly eat away at them

Result? Fortune-telling and prayers may bring happiness for a moment, but they are like a candle in a storm – not only is their light not lasting, but they also deepen the darkness. Human relationships are formed based on trust, communication, and problem-solving, not on vague statements and imaginary spells. As critical thinking strengthens in society, these decaying beliefs will become less prominent. However, as long as there is insecurity, anxiety, and social crises, these sheltering illusions will continue to have customers.

From an economic perspective, has fortune-telling and divination become a lucrative industry?

Fortune-telling and divination have practically become a lucrative and high-income business, but there is no accurate statistics or research in this area. People are looking for hope in difficult times, and fortune-tellers and diviners know how to turn this “hope” into “money”. This industry is not official or transparent, but it undoubtedly has a high financial turnover and continues to find its own customers.

Some reports indicate that even politicians and government officials have resorted to fortune-telling and divination. Is this true? If so, what consequences could it have?

I do not have any documented information in this field. However, if such phenomena occur, their examination from the perspective of social and governance impacts can be important. Relying on fortune-telling and superstitions is not just a personal issue, it is a “management earthquake” that affects the whole society. When the management of a country is based on scientific analysis, planning is based on data, past experiences, and future-oriented studies. But if politicians resort to superstitions, policymaking will be based on imaginary beliefs and forces. This not only leads to the spread of irrational thinking among people, but also reduces public trust in the management of the country.

Is the use of fortune-telling and prayer in politics a sign of weak management and lack of scientific planning?

A manager, at any level, is like the captain of a ship. He must navigate the route with the help of a map, compass, and analysis of weather conditions. If instead of these tools, he relies on stargazing and prayers, it means he has entrusted the ship’s navigation to chance and fate. In the modern world, a country that bases its policies on economic analysis, social data, and rational diplomacy will succeed.

Does the Iranian government take this phenomenon seriously, or does it use it as a means of controlling society?

There are laws in place to deal with this phenomenon, but the existence of laws is a matter of debate and their enforcement is another issue. In any case, the cultural and advertising space contributes to the perpetuation of these beliefs. If dealing with this issue is only approached from a legal perspective, it can be seen as an external factor, but if combined with internal factors, it can be effective.

What is the role of media and educational institutions in dealing with this issue?

Pierre Bourdieu, a French sociologist, believed that knowledge and culture are not only tools for awareness, but also tools for reproducing or changing social structures. In order to reduce superstitions in society, the cultural capital of the people must be changed, in which the media play a key role. How?

It is enough to make scientific narratives interesting; if fortune-tellers create exciting and emotional stories about the future, media outlets should also produce influential scientific documentaries using engaging narratives. Or we can turn scientific figures into media heroes; just as fortune-tellers and astrologers have become cultural symbols in some media outlets, scientists and analysts should also transform into attractive television and social media personalities. And finally, let’s convey awareness in simple language; many people trust fortune-tellers because their words are simple and understandable. Scientific media should also present scientific concepts in simple and comprehensible language instead of complex content.

Can the experience of other countries in dealing with superstitions and promoting rationality be useful for Iran?

Social sciences and policymaking, unlike natural sciences such as mathematics, do not have fixed formulas and universality. If 2+2 equals 4 in every point of the world, the way to combat superstitions and promote rationality in each society depends on its specific history, culture, and social structures. In Scandinavian countries, the education system is based on scientific thinking and skepticism, while in Japan modernity and tradition coexist, and in Europe, media have acted as tools for enlightenment and countering unscientific beliefs. The methods adopted by these countries can certainly be inspiring for us, but we cannot simply apply them to our own society. The solution for social issues is not like changing a piece of clothing that can be taken from one country and put on another society, but rather it is like tailoring and must be adapted to the parameters and coordinates of that society. In other words, we can learn from global patterns, but not as ready-made versions for implementation, but as raw materials

Thank you for the opportunity you have given us to use the peace line.