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Ethical
Standards and Guidelines of the International Society for Astrological Research
(ISAR 2001)(*Revised
7/2003)
PREAMBLE
The International Society For Astrological Research (ISAR)
is an educational and professional organization whose members are dedicated to
the highest quality in astrology. Association members promote data accuracy,
educational services, counseling standards, and ongoing research in astrology
across a variety of disciplines.
Astrologers work to develop a valid and reliable body of
knowledge based on research, both quantitative and qualitative. They may apply
that knowledge to human understanding in a variety of contexts: consultant,
counselor, administrator, psychotherapist, and educator. These Ethical
Standards and Guidelines have as their primary goal the welfare and protection
of individuals and groups with whom astrologers work as well as the professional
astrologer and the professional astrological community.
Astrologers’ moral standards and conduct are personal
matters to the same degree as is true for any other person, except as
astrologers’ conduct may compromise their professional responsibilities or
reduce the public’s trust in astrology and astrologers. It is the individual
responsibility of each astrologer to aspire to the highest possible standard of
conduct.
These Ethical Standards and Guidelines enable ISAR to
clarify the nature of the ethical responsibilities held in common by its
members. All members of ISAR adhere to the Ethical Standards and Guidelines,
which serve as a basis for mediating ethical complaints.
As there are several sub-disciplines in astrology, a
comprehensive Ethical Standards and Guidelines must endeavor to cover a variety
of different situations. What is ethically relevant to a Horary or Financial
astrologer may not apply to a consulting astrologer whose client is struggling
with a relationship problem. These guidelines, therefore, strive to recognize
the specific ethical standards that apply in the different sub-disciplines of
astrology. It also covers activities outside the field of consulting, such as
interactions with the public, teaching, supervision, and research. We recognize
that the development of standards is an ongoing process and that this code is a
living document subject to revisions and updates as needed.
Astrology has a variety of theoretical perspectives and a
wide range of appropriate research methods. Astrologers should warrant their
research conclusions consistent with the standards of their own theoretical and
methodological perspectives. They should keep themselves well informed in both
their own and competing paradigms where those are relevant to their research,
and they should continually evaluate the criteria of adequacy by which research
is judged.
These Ethical Standards and Guidelines cannot expressly
cover every conceivable situation that may occur. The absence of a specific
standard or guideline against a particular kind of conduct does not mean that
such conduct is ethical. Accordingly, while the specific wording of these
standards is important, those utilizing or interpreting these Ethical Standards
and Guidelines should always take the spirit and intent of the principles into
consideration.
Adherence to a dynamic set of ethical standards requires a
personal commitment to a life-long effort to act ethically; to encourage
ethical behavior by one’s colleagues; and to consult with others, as needed,
concerning ethical problems.
The primary intent of these Ethical Standards and Guidelines
is to educate astrologers about the types of ethical practices that will
improve client experiences, relationships among colleagues and the acceptance
of our field. It is our expectation that these guidelines will inspire us to
higher standards. If a member of our community falls short of our minimum
standards, an ethics committee will work to mediate misunderstandings and
disputes.
Section A:
Professional Responsibility
A.1. DEFINITION
A professional astrologer provides astrological services as
a source of livelihood or as a career. An astrologer is someone who offers a
perspective or opinion based on a thorough analysis of astrological charts,
including horoscopes for individuals, couples, organizations, pets and mundane
events, and may use transits, progressions and other related methods in the
process. Professional astrologers strive to use the most accurate birth data
available.
A.2. FOUNDATIONAL
STANDARDS
a.
Responsibility to Learn Ethical Standards and Guidelines.
Astrologers have a responsibility to read, understand, and
follow the Ethical Standards and Guidelines. Ignorance of professional
guidelines is not an acceptable defense against a charge of unethical conduct.
b. Primary Responsibility
The prime directive that supersedes all other ethics
is do no harm. Astrologers act at all times in the client’s best
interest.
c. Enhance
Image of the Profession
Astrologers behave in a manner that does not damage the
status of the profession. They present an image of professionalism when
representing astrology.
A.3. PERSONAL NEEDS
AND VALUES
a. Personal
Needs
Astrologers are aware of the intimacy and responsibilities
inherent in the consulting relationship, maintain respect for clients, and avoid
actions that seek to meet their personal needs at the expense of clients.
b. Personal
Values
Astrologers recognize their own values, attitudes or
beliefs, realize that we live in a diverse society, and avoid imposing their
values on clients.
A.4. RESPECTING
DIVERSITY
a.
Nondiscrimination
Astrologers do not discriminate against clients, students,
or supervisees in a manner that has a negative impact based on their age,
color, culture, disability, ethnic group, gender, race, religion, sexual
orientation, marital status, or socioeconomic status, or for any other reason.
b. Respecting
Differences
Astrologers will actively attempt to understand the diverse
cultural backgrounds of the clients with whom they work. This includes, but is
not limited to, learning how the astrologer?s own cultural/ethnic/racial
identity impacts his/her values and beliefs about the consulting process.
A.5. PROFESSIONAL
COMPETENCE
a. Boundaries
of Competence
Astrologers practice only within the boundaries of their
competence, based not only upon their formal education and training, but also
upon their appropriate professional experience including teaching, research,
consulting and publishing. Astrologers consistently strive to achieve
excellence in their work.
b. New
Specialty Areas of Practice
Astrologers practice in specialty areas new to them only
after appropriate education and training. While developing skills in new
specialty areas, astrologers take steps to ensure the competence of their work.
c. Continuing
Education
Astrologers recognize the need for continuing education.
This may include attending conferences, taking courses and studying
astrological texts. Astrologers strive to maintain competence in the skills
they use and are open to new procedures.
d. Limitation
or Impairment
Astrologers refrain from rendering professional services
when their physical, mental, or emotional problems are likely to harm a client
or others. They are alert to signs of limitation or impairment, seek assistance
for problems, and, if necessary, limit, suspend, or terminate their professional
responsibilities.
A.6. ADVERTISING AND
SOLICITING CLIENTS
a. Definition
Advertising entails, but is not limited to, all paid and
unpaid statements in media, brochures, business cards, direct mail promotions,
directory listings, resumes, and other printed matter. Advertising also
includes statements made in oral presentations such as lectures and classes, as
well as comments for use in electronic media such as television, radio, and the
Internet.
b. Accurate
Advertising
It is unethical for astrologers to make false, fraudulent,
misleading, or deceptive claims that are designed to induce the rendering of
professional services. A statement may be misleading or deceptive if it fails
to disclose material facts or is intended or is likely to create false or unjustified
expectations of favorable results.
c. Statements
by Others/Media
Astrologers make reasonable efforts to ensure that
statements made by others/media about them or the profession of astrology is
accurate.
d. Products and
Training Advertisements
Astrologers who develop products related to their profession
or conduct workshops or training events ensure that the advertisements
concerning these products or events are accurate and disclose adequate
information for consumers to make informed choices.
Section A.6.e. Under discussion. See Addendum.
e. Promoting
to Those Served
f. Professional
Association Involvement
Astrologers strive to actively participate in local, state,
or national associations that foster the development and improvement of
astrology.
A.7. CREDENTIALS
a. Credentials
Claimed
Astrologers claim or imply only professional credentials
possessed and are responsible for correcting any known misrepresentations of
their credentials by others. Professional credentials include certification
from a recognized astrology program, graduate degrees in astrology, philosophy,
religion, counseling, psychology or closely related fields, government issued
certifications or licenses, or any other credential that might indicate to the
public specialized knowledge in a field related to their astrological work.
b. Credential
Guidelines
Astrologers follow the guidelines for use of credentials
that have been established by the institutions that issue the credentials.
Section A.7.c Under discussion. See Addendum.
c. Doctoral Degrees from Other Fields
A.8. FEES AND
BARTERING
a. Establishing
Fees
Astrologers clearly explain to clients, prior to entering
the consultation, all financial arrangements and options related to the
scheduled consultation.
b. Bartering
Astrologers may accept goods or services in return for
astrological services, provided that the relationship is not exploitative and
if the astrologer and the client make a clear agreement about their bartering
arrangement.
c. Referral
Fees
Astrologers do not accept referral fees because of potential
conflict of interest.
d. Pro Bono
Service
Astrologers strive to contribute to society by devoting a
portion of their professional activity to services for which there is little or
no financial return (pro bono).
A.9. PUBLIC
RESPONSIBILITY
a. Charts of
Public Figures
Interpretations of the charts of public figures are confined
to areas that are considered public domain due to specific achievements or
notoriety as revealed in interviews, published documents, or recorded
observations. When interpreting charts of
public figures, astrologers refrain from making slanderous comments.
b. Mundane,
Economic or Political Predictions
When interpreting charts that refer to large groups of
people, whether financial, social, political, or geophysical, astrologers do
not make dire predictions of imminent disaster that are likely to lead to
unreasonable fears in the public. Negative predictions are tempered with
disclaimers, such as (a) astrology is not an exact science, (b)
astrological variables can manifest in differing events of similar meaning, and
(c) astrology cannot predict with absolute certainty the outcome of future
astronomical events
c. Sexual
Harassment
Astrologers do not engage in sexual harassment, which is
defined as sexual solicitation, physical advances, or verbal or nonverbal
conduct that is sexual in nature, that occurs in connection with professional
activities or roles, and that either: (1) is unwelcome, (2) is offensive, or
(3) is sufficiently severe or intense to be perceived as harassment to a
reasonable person in the context. Sexual harassment can consist of a single
intense or severe act or multiple persistent or pervasive acts.
d. Media
Presentations
When astrologers provide advice or comment by means of
public lectures, demonstrations, radio or television programs, prerecorded
tapes, printed articles, computer reports, mailed material, or other media,
they take reasonable precautions to ensure that (1) the statements are based on
appropriate professional astrological literature and practice; (2) the statements
are otherwise consistent with ethical behavior; (3) they do not represent
themselves as spokespersons for an organization without the proper
authorization from that organization; and (4) the recipient of the information
is not encouraged to infer that a professional counseling relationship has been
established.
e. Unreasonable
Claims
Astrologers do not exploit the anxieties and gullibility of
the public by inducing people to purchase astrological services on the basis of
unreasonable futuristic claims, such as the promise of love, happiness, or
prosperity. Neither do astrologers induce people to purchase services on the
premise of protecting them from negative future events that the astrologer
claims to see.
Section A.10 Under discussion. See Addendum.
A.10. SEXUAL
INTIMACIES WITH CLIENTS
A.11. RESPONSIBILITY
TO OTHER PROFESSIONALS
a. Different
Approaches
Astrologers are respectful of approaches to professional
astrology that differ from their own. Astrologers know and take into account
the traditions and practices of other professional groups with whom they work.
b. Personal
Public Statements
When making personal statements in a public context,
astrologers clarify that they are speaking from their personal perspective and
that they are not speaking on behalf of all astrologers or the profession.
c. Personal
Disputes
Astrologers should refrain from making statements, either
orally or in writing, that might be construed as disparaging or undermining to
another astrologer’s reputation or expertise. Any comments made by one
astrologer that refer to another should first be clearly explained as
a difference in ideas, preferred techniques, viewpoints, etc., and not as
a personal attack on any individual. This same professional courtesy should be
extended to the discussion of policies or practices of any astrological
organization, both local and national.
Section B: Confidentiality
B.1. RIGHT TO PRIVACY
a. Respect for
Privacy
Astrologers respect their client’s right to privacy and
avoid unwarranted disclosures of confidential information.
b. Multiple
Relationships
When an astrologer agrees to provide consulting services for
someone at the request of a third party, the astrologer clarifies that
confidentiality will be maintained with respect to both parties.
c. Client
Waiver
The client or their legally recognized representative may
waive the right to privacy.
d. Exceptions
The general requirement that astrologers keep information
confidential does not apply when disclosure is required to prevent clear and
imminent danger to the client or others. Astrologers consult with other
professionals, such as lawyers and state licensed medical professionals, when
in doubt as to the validity of an exception.
e. Supervision
If work with a client will involve a continued review by a
supervisor, the client will be informed of the supervisor’s existence.
Astrologers obtain the client?s permission before presenting the case, and
assure clients that names and other identifying information that is not
essential to the supervisory process will be withheld.
f. Group Work
In group work, astrologers clearly define confidentiality
and its parameters for the specific group being entered, explain its
importance, and discuss the difficulties related to confidentiality involved in
group work. The fact that confidentiality cannot be guaranteed is clearly
communicated to group members.
g. Minor
Clients
When interpreting charts of individuals who are minors and
who are unable to give voluntary, informed consent, parents or guardians may be
included in the consulting process as appropriate.
h.
Confidentiality of Records
Astrologers exercise due diligence regarding the safety and
confidentiality of any records they create, maintain, or transfer whether the
records are written, taped, computerized, or stored in any other medium.
i. Permission
to Record or Observe
Astrologers obtain permission from clients before electronically
recording or having others observe a session. If a session is recorded, clients
are informed of the purpose of the recording, e.g., if tapes are to be archived
and/or sold commercially. If recorded sessions are later to be put to any other
purpose, specific permission is first obtained from those clients.
B.2. THIRD PARTY
HOROSCOPES
a.
Interpretation of a Third Party’s Horoscope
If a client wants an astrologer to extensively interpret the
chart of an adult third party (that is, the focus of session will not be about
the client’s specific relationship to that third party), the astrologer
requires the client to obtain the third party’s permission.
b. Failure to
Obtain Permission
If the primary client does not obtain permission from the
third party, astrologers may use the third party’s birth data to better
understand the client’s relationship with this third party, but avoid direct
interpretation of third party horoscopes to the client.
c. Synastry,
Composite and Davison Charts
For purposes of Synastry, Composite or Davison relationship
charts, astrologers may utilize the birth data of third parties without their
permission. However, astrologers avoid direct interpretation of third party
horoscopes to the client.
B.3. RESEARCH AND
TRAINING
a. Data
Disguise
Use of data derived from counseling relationships for
purposes of training, research, or publication is disguised to ensure the
anonymity of the individuals involved. Such disguises may include, but are not
limited to, false names, gender, race, career, and other indicators that can be
altered without losing the essential significance of the data.
b. Agreement
for Identification
Identification of a client in a presentation or publication
is permissible only when the client has reviewed the material and has agreed to
its presentation or publication.
Section D:
Consulting Astrology
D.1. DEFINITION
An astrological consultant is one whose services include
discussion of an astrological chart in order to (1) help individuals recognize
their strengths and talents, (2) provide insight into life issues, (3)
elucidate patterns of growth and development, (4) confirm self-knowledge, (5)
suggest the life purpose, (6) reveal periods of challenge and opportunity, (7)
explore the meaning of a particular experience or phase of life, or (8) provide
guidance as to timing or decisions with regard to a particular course of
action.
D.2. COMPETENCE IN
CONSULTING
Section D.2.a. Under discussion. See Addendum.
Boundaries of Competence
D.3. DISCLOSURE TO
CLIENTS
a. Fees and
Appointments
When making appointments, astrologers clearly inform clients
of the fee, duration, and locale of the session.
b. Nature of
Services
When a consultation is initiated, astrologers ascertain the
needs and goals of the client and inform the client of purposes, goals,
procedures, benefits and limitations of services.
c.
Non-Astrological Techniques & Practices
Astrologers who use other techniques in their practices
(such as Tarot, Numerology, or psychic abilities) distinguish these sources of
information from astrological sources and techniques.
d. Accurate
Information
Astrologers are mindful of the limitations of predictive
accuracy and avoid the use of universal qualifiers such as every, always,
never, for certain, any, no one, or other such blanket statements that imply
definite, concrete outcomes. Clients are informed that it is impossible for
astrology to be absolutely certain about personality profiles or future events.
e. Use of
Indeterminate Qualifiers
Astrologers are encouraged to utilize terms that are
non-absolute and non-fatalistic, such as may, could, might, perhaps, and
possibly, when rendering a personality profile or a forecast of future events,
with efforts to ground these statements
whenever possible in research studies. Special efforts are made to avoid
unwarranted certainty and dogmatic interpretations of chart variables.
f. Chart
Meanings Vary
Astrologers ensure that clients understand that meanings of
chart variables are multidimensional, operate on a continuum, and that the
client?s expression of his/her chart reflects his/her level of maturity and
degree of self-actualization.
g.
Reincarnational Astrology
Astrologers who interpret chart symbolism in terms of karma
and reincarnation convey respect for their clients’ right to choose other
ways of looking at life. Faced with a client who is uncomfortable with
reincarnation, the astrologer does not criticize or proselytize. He or she
either disqualifies himself or herself from working with that client, or
presents alternative perspectives, such as genetic patterning or family
mythology.
When using reincarnational imagery, astrologers
emphasize to their clients that this kind of information operates in accord
with the same principles that underlie the rest of ethical astrological
practice, i.e., the symbols are not literal or one-dimensional; they are
subject to multiple interpretations, and that the astrologer is attempting to
invoke an understanding of psychological dynamics rather than concrete
biographical facts from prior lifetimes. Astrologers acknowledge that
prior-life information is, in and of itself, a matter of personal belief
and thereforedifficult to evaluate directly. They encourage their clients to
test the reincarnational information by the same standard they would use to
test any other form of astrological counsel: an independent consideration
of its relevance to the circumstances of the present life. Always, astrologers
practicing this kind of astrology strive to be sensitive to its unique risks in
terms of creating destructive guilt or ego inflation in the client.
D.4. CLIENT WELFARE
a. Positive
Growth and Development
Astrologers encourage client growth and development in ways
that foster the clients’ autonomy, interest, and welfare. Astrologers avoid
fostering dependent relationships.
b. Promoting
Independence
Astrologers do not tell clients what they should do with respect
to choices in relationships, career, relocations, sex, finances, or any other
matter. While the astrologer may clarify
matters as revealed in the chart, provide insight into the nature of conflicts,
empathize with the client?s dilemma, or recommend a course of action, the
astrologer respects and supports the client’s capacity for decision-making.
D.5. PREDICTIVE WORK
a. Continuum of
Meanings
The astrologer provides a reasonable range of meanings and
assures the client that actual event outcomes may vary along a continuum of
possibilities.
b. Claims of
Infallibility
No astrologer will claim to be infallible in the prediction
of particular events.
c. Dire
Warnings
Astrologers do not make predictions that are likely to lead
to unreasonable fears in the client. Predictions are not made of calamitous
events such as divorce, accidents, illness, death, financial ruin, or other
negative outcomes without balancing the interpretation with more positive,
alternative and equally probable meanings. Efforts are made to assure the
client that while some periods may be more challenging than others, and may or
may not entail negative outcomes, difficulties can be conducive of
psychological growth and development.
Section D.6. Under discussion. See Addendum
D.6. CLIENTS SERVED BY
OTHERS
D.7. MULTIPLE CLIENTS
When astrologers agree to separately consult with two or
more persons who have a relationship, astrologers use their discretion and
ensure confidentiality. If it becomes apparent that astrologers may be called
upon to perform potentially conflicting roles, they clarify, adjust, or
withdraw from roles appropriately.
D.8. REFERRAL
a. Referrals to
Other Astrologers
When astrological issues arise that are beyond the scope of
the astrologer’s training and practice, e.g., a medical, financial, relocation,
or horary question, the astrologer refers clients to other professionals who
are trained in such matters.
b. Referrals to
Non-astrological Professionals
If astrologers are unable to be of professional assistance
to clients, they avoid entering or immediately terminate a consulting
relationship. Astrologers are knowledgeable about referral resources and
suggest appropriate alternatives, such as a licensed psychotherapist,
psychiatrist, medical doctor, or 12-step program.
Section F:
Research and Publication
Astrology research covers the gamut from casual studies and
anecdotal evidence to replicated statistical research. The essence of ethics in
astrology research is the fair and accurate reporting of results. There are
some special issues involved in astrological research, but on the whole the
standard rules of good scientific research apply.
F.1. REPORTING RESULTS
a. Information
Affecting Outcome
When reporting research results, researchers explicitly
mention all variables and conditions known to the investigator that may have
affected the outcome of the study or the interpretation of data.
b. Data Source
Designation
Researchers are required to report the source of their data
? both who collected it and where the birth time for each birth record
originated. The designation of who collected the data is properly called a
citation e.g. “from the Rodden”. The designation of the origin of the birth
data is properly called “the data source.” Researchers are required to use a
source rating system similar to the Rodden rating system to determine the
reliability of the data.
c. Accurate
Results
Researchers plan, conduct, and report research accurately
and in a manner that minimizes the possibility that results will be misleading.
They provide thorough discussions of the limitations of their data and offer
alternative hypotheses. Researchers do not engage in fraudulent research,
distort data, or deliberately bias their results.
d. Obligation
to Report Unfavorable Results
Researchers communicate to other astrologers the results of
any research judged to be of professional value. Good science requires that you
report your results whether you got the answer you expected or not. Both
positive and negative results help build the body of knowledge in a field.
Results that reflect unfavorably on institutions, programs, services,
prevailing opinions, or vested interests are not withheld.
e. Identity of
Subjects
Researchers engaged in a research project take due care to
disguise the identity of respective subjects in the absence of specific written
authorization from the subjects to do otherwise. Research information about
public figures, derived from public domain, does not have to be disguised.
f. Replication
Studies
Researchers are obligated to make available sufficient
original research data to qualified professionals who may wish to replicate the
study or do a meta-study. Secondary researchers should respect and maintain the
anonymity established by primary researchers.
g. Statistical
analysis
Researchers refrain from making definitive statements about
the abundance or lack of astrological factors in a sample unless they have
built a proper control group. There are many surprising astronomical
irregularities (like Mars is four times more likely to conjunct the Sun than
oppose it) that could easily result in false astrological conclusions if
results are not compared to a control group. When discussing the results of
informal research, researchers use qualifying words such as, may, could,
appears to, suggests or seems to.
Researchers recognize the difference between statistical
significance and predictive significance when analyzing and discussing the
results of astrological studies. Statistical significance can come from a small
difference in the sample, which isn’t useful in making predictions about
individuals.
F.2. PUBLICATION
a. Intellectual
Property
The data and results of a research study are the
intellectual property of the researchers who designed and conducted the study,
unless specific contractual arrangements have been made with respect to either
or both the data and results. For intellectual honesty, all funding sources and
restrictions should be mentioned in the research report.
b. Recognition
of Others
When conducting and reporting research, or when presenting a
theory, researchers are familiar with and give recognition to previous work on
the topic, observe copyright laws, and give full credit to those to whom credit
is due. Specifically:
If you got an idea from someone else, acknowledge the source
of the idea.
If you quote someone, quote them accurately and don’t quote
fragments out of context in a way that distorts the meaning of the source text.
If you did not do all the work on a project yourself, make
sure everyone who contributed is properly credited in the final report about
the work.
c. Duplicate
Submission
Astrologers submit manuscripts or articles for consideration
to only one journal/magazine at a time, unless the publisher is informed.
Manuscripts or articles that are published in whole or in substantial part in
another journal/magazine are not submitted for publication without
acknowledgment and permission from the previous publication.
d. Professional
Review
Astrologers who review material submitted for publication,
research, or other scholarly purposes respect the confidentiality and
proprietary rights of those who submitted it. The work should not be discussed
until published unless one is given explicit permission otherwise. Evaluation
of the work should be based entirely on the content of the research, not on the
researcher’s school of astrology. Criticisms should be made respectfully and
concretely.
e. Software
Programs
Astrologers do not knowingly replicate codes or programs
from other astrological software publishers.
Section G:
Financial Astrology
G.1. DEFINITION
Astrologers, who, for profit or compensation, utilize
astrology, to advise or present an opinion on stocks, bonds, mutual funds,
commodity futures contracts, or options are financial astrologers. Additionally
this category would include Astrologers who present an opinion on any matters
pertaining to financial planning and portfolio structuring or re-structuring.
a. Proper
Credentials
Financial astrologers demonstrate an
understanding, knowledge and proficiency of market movements through
extended personal study, and through the correct use of astrological software
specifically designed for this purpose. Financial astrologers who,
directly or indirectly, make recommendations as to the value or advisability of
buying or selling stocks, bonds, futures contracts, or commodity or stock
options, or who make recommendations on the advisability of investing or
trading in any other financial vehicles, are required to register with the
appropriate regulatory agencies as required by law in their country of
residence.
In the United States, for example, one must be registered as
a Commodity Trading Advisor (CTA) in order to give specific advice, for
compensation, on buying or selling (i.e. trading) commodity futures contracts
or options. Or one must be registered as an Investment Advisor with the
Security Exchange Commission (SEC) if giving specific advice, for compensation,
on buying or selling specific stocks. Likewise, one must be registered with
other appropriate agencies to give advice, for compensation, on financial planning
or portfolio structuring, in the United States. It is up to the Financial
Astrologer to know and to abide by those laws pertaining to his/her country of
residence on these matters.
b. Exams
Financial Astrologers who give specific investment and/or trading
recommendations in any financial markets must take and pass all regulatory
exams that pertain to giving investment and trading advice from appropriate
regulatory agencies as required by law in one’s country of residence.
c. Opinions
versus Recommendations
The financial astrologer who is not licensed by the proper
securities regulatory agencies of his/her country must be very clear in stating
that the advice given is an opinion only, and not a recommendation, to buy or
sell a particular financial instrument being discussed.
G.2. ADVERTISING
a. Factually
True Statements
All statements made by financial astrologers in promotional
material are factually true. Astrologers are able to document all claims and do
not utilize promotional material that is likely to deceive or mislead the
reader. Likewise, financial astrologers do not omit facts if the omission would
make the promotional material deceptive or misleading.
b. Profit and
Loss
An equally prominent statement of the risk of loss must
accompany statements of the possibility of profit.
c. Hypothetical
Results
Any reference to hypothetical results that could have been
achieved in the past by employing some particular trading system (e.g. an
astrological software program) must be accompanied by a disclaimer that any
past hypothetical results are no guarantee of future performance.
d. Actual
Performance
Statements about past performance must be accurately
portrayed.
e. Opinion
Statements
Statements of opinion must be identified as such, and must
have a reasonable basis in fact. For example, Financial Astrologers cannot
claim that, “your investments will earn at a minimum annual rate of 20%.” Any
such concrete claims made must be documented with empirical evidence. However,
quotes by others regarding the Financial Astrologer that include such positive
statements, are permissible to use in advertising, providing these statements
are actual, were unsolicited by the Financial Astrologer and permission in
writing to use such quotes was obtained.
f. Truth in
Advertising
Financial astrologers do not make inflated claims when
advertising their services or software. Claims of having “the best software
program” or that one is “the best financial astrologer” are in
violation of United States Federal regulations, and may violate regulations of
other countries as well. Such statements cannot be objectively substantiated
and should therefore be avoided.
G.3. GIVING FINANCIAL
ADVICE
a. Using
Absolute Teminology
Financial astrologers do not make astrological forecasts
about future market performance involving absolute and inevitable terms, such
as every, always, never, for certain, any, no one, or other such blanket
statements that imply definite, concrete outcomes. Clients are informed that it
is impossible for astrology to be absolute about future events, such as what
the market will do on any given date or time period. Accordingly, financial
astrologers utilize terms that are open-ended and non-absolute, such as may,
could, might, perhaps, and possibly, with efforts to ground these statements
whenever possible in research studies.
b. Scope of Practice
Financial astrologers represent themselves accurately in
terms of their qualifications and training in financial matters. If they lack
the appropriate training or qualifications, they refer their clients to someone
who does have the experience.
G. 4. CLIENT
SUITABILITY
Financial Astrologers do not give specific investment or
trading advice to a client without taking into account the client’s suitability
for making such investments or trades. The client’s astrological chart, age,
investment experience, trading experience, financial goals and objectives,
annual income, net worth, and available investment funds must all be considered
before imparting any specific trade or investment advice on an individual
basis. All relevant factors considered in making specific recommendations are
disclosed to clients.
Section H:
Business Astrology
H.1. DEFINITION
Astrologers who advise businesses in matters of hiring,
personnel, administration, expansion, downsizing, financial planning, cycles of
earning, incorporation dates, trade dates, starting dates, and other important
dates are business astrologers.
H.2. ADVERTISING
a. Factually
True Statements
All statements made by business astrologers in promotional
material are factually true and can or have been documented.
b. Inflated
Claims
Business astrologers do not make unreasonable or inflated
claims as to how their services can increase company profits.
H.3. GIVING BUSINESS
ADVICE
a. Scope of
Practice
Business astrologers represent themselves accurately in
terms of their qualifications and training in business matters. They do not
present themselves as experts or authorities in areas where they lack the
appropriate training and qualifications.
b. Nature of
Services
When a business consultation is initiated, astrologers
inform clients of the purposes, goals, techniques, procedures, limitations,
potential risks and benefits of services to be performed.
It is the responsibility of the astrologer to inform the
company of the necessity of accurate data in order to give an accurate opinion.
c. Profit and
Loss
When advising businesses in matters that may affect company
profits, an equally prominent statement of the risk of loss must accompany any
statements of the possibility of profit.
d. Personnel
Decisions
In working with the charts of employees for purposes of
personnel decisions, business astrologers require the employer to get accurate
birth data and written permission from employees. Employers are advised that
employees may perceive requests for birth data as coercive; thus, employers
should inform employees that (1) disclosure of birth data is voluntary, and (2)
what their intention is in using the birth data. The astrologer’s statements
about employees are limited to matters that pertain to their potential role
within the company.
Section H.3.e. Under discussion. See Addendum.
e. Business
Partnerships
f. Universal
Qualifiers
When making business forecasts astrologers do not use
universal qualifiers such as every, always, never, for certain, any,
no one, or other such blanket statements that imply definite, concrete
outcomes. Clients are informed that it is impossible for astrology to be
absolute about future events, such as how an employee will behave or what a
business will do. Accordingly, business astrologers utilize terms that are open
ended and indeterminate, such as may, could, might, perhaps, and possibly.
Section I:
Horary & Electional Astrology
I.1. DEFINITION
Astrologers who answer questions by casting horoscopes for
the moment the question is asked are horary astrologers. Horary astrologers
answer questions pertaining to business dealings, purchases, lost objects, job
related decisions, relationships, and other matters that permit concrete,
precise answers to specific questions.
Astrologers who assist clients in choosing or “electing” a
specific date/time for an event?e.g., a wedding, surgery, incorporation, an
inauguration, or the signing of a contract?are electional astrologers.
Electional astrologers inform clients that the elected time indicates the best
potential moment for initiating an act or event but is not a guarantee of a
successful end result.
I.2. BUSINESS
PRACTICES
a. Nature and
Scope of Services
When a consultation is initiated, astrologers inform clients
of the purposes, goals, techniques, procedures, limitations, potential risks
and benefits of services to be performed. For example, a horary client needs to
know that the same question cannot be asked twice.
For electional work, the client is told that an electional
chart cannot produce outcomes that are radically inconsistent with the natal
chart, or the transits, progressions and directions in effect at the time the
work is done. Clients are informed that electional astrology is not an exact
science and that the answers that astrologers provide are not infallible, and
that use of electional astrology cannot prevent negative consequences from
affecting the life of the client. In no
instance should electional astrology be used in support of immoral activity,
such as the best time to attempt a burglary, or in any effort to deliberately
harm another person.
I.3. QUESTIONS,
ANSWERS AND ADVICE
a. Accepting
Questions
Horary astrologers are aware that the answers they give to
questions may influence the client’s subsequent expectations,
thinking, and behavior. Accordingly, they accept responsibility that their
answers to questions may influence the client’s decisions, which could lead to
negative as well as positive outcomes.
b. Refusing
Questions
Horary astrologers do not accept questions that they are
unable or unwilling to answer. Once a question is accepted, they are aware that
their subsequent refusal to answer the question may itself be misconstrued as
an answer. If they envision an answer that they cannot bring themselves to
give, they do not accept the question.
c. Questions
About Death
Horary astrologers are extra cautious about questions that
pertain to life and death, and are aware that the answers they provide may have
an affect on the outcome in question. If at all possible, such questions are
not accepted.
d. Clarifying
Questions
Astrologers do not attempt to answer questions or offer
advice if there is any confusion as to what the astrologer is being asked to
answer or elect. If the client asks multiple questions that lack the necessary
specificity for a good delineation, the horary astrologer does not attempt to
answer such questions. Horary astrologers help their clients phrase questions
in a manner that permits an intelligible answer.
e. Avoid “ever”
Questions
Horary astrologers avoid answering questions that involve
absolute certainties such as “Will I ever marry again?” or, “Will I ever become
president of my company?” They are aware that their answers can influence
client expectations and that expectations can operate as self-fulfilling
prophesies. Accordingly, the client is assisted in rewording the question in a
more provisional form that involves time
periods that are not final, e.g., “will I marry again in the next three years?”
f. Third Party
Questions
Horary astrologers avoid questions that involve the lives of
third parties, i.e., someone other than the client, because there is a probable
attenuation of accuracy in answering such questions. Horary astrologers are
also aware that answers to third-party questions may entail an undue
interference in the life of the third party.
Section J:
Resolving Ethical Issues
Formal complaints regarding violations of this ISAR
ethics code will be deliberated by an ISAR Ethics Committee composed of five
members.
The first aim of the Committee is toward mediation and
conflict resolution. Failing that, the Committee is empowered to
investigate complaintsagainst ethical practices brought before the
committee and to enforce a series of remedies, up to and including revocation
of ISAR CAP status and ISAR membership. In all ways, the ISAR Ethics Committee
strives to be fair, representative, and fundamentally oriented toward healing,
education and reconciliation rather than toward punishment.
J.1. KNOWLEDGE OF
STANDARDS
Astrologers are expected to be familiar with these Ethical
Standards and Guidelines. Lack of knowledge or misunderstanding of an ethical
responsibility is not a defense against a charge of unethical conduct.
J.2. SUSPECTED
VIOLATIONS
a. Ethical
Behavior Expected
Astrologers expect professional associates to adhere to the
Ethical Standards and Guidelines. When astrologers possess reasonable cause
that raises doubts as to whether an astrologer is acting in an ethical manner,
they seek appropriate remedy.
b. Consultation
When uncertain as to whether a particular situation or
course of action may be in violation of the Ethical Standards and Guidelines,
astrologers consult with appropriate authorities or other astrologers who are
knowledgeable about ethics, such as those on the ISAR Ethics Committee.
c. Informal
Resolution
When astrologers have reasonable cause to believe that
another astrologer is violating an ethical standard, they may first attempt to
resolve the issue informally with the other astrologer, providing that such
action does not violate confidentiality rights that may be involved.
d. Unwarranted
Complaints
Astrologers do not initiate, participate in, or encourage
the filing of ethics complaints that are unwarranted or solely intended to harm
another astrologer.
J.3. COOPERATION WITH
ISAR ETHICS COMMITTEE
Astrologers assist in the process of enforcing the Ethical
Standards and Guidelines by cooperating with an inquiry for resolution, proceedings,
and requirements of the ISAR Ethics Committee.
J.4. ETHICS VIOLATIONS
a. ISAR
Ethics Committee
The main purposes of the ISAR Ethics Committee are to
educate the association’s membership about ethical codes and to protect the
public and the astrological community from unethical practices. The ISAR Board
chooses a Chair, the Chair chooses two other committee members with the
approval of the ISAR board and two rotating committee members are selected at
random and based on their willingness to serve, from the CAP
membership. An ethics committee processes formal complaints against
members of the association.
b. Resolution
of Formal Complaints
When a formal complaint is lodged against a member of
the association, the committee begins an inquiry and deliberates on resolving
the issue. Eventually, a disposition is reached. The complaint may be
dismissed, or the committee may find that ethical standards have been violated
and impose sanctions.
c. Imposition
of Sanctions
Depending upon the nature of the violation, possible
sanctions include a reprimand, probation, suspension or revocation of ISAR
membership or certification, referral of the matter to other bodies, or
recommendation that some remedial action is taken such as obtaining ongoing
supervision or personal therapy. Members have the right to appeal the
committee?s decision and present evidence on their behalf.
d. Filing a
Formal Complaint
Suspected violations of these Ethical Standards and
Guidelines should be brought to the attention of the ISAR ETHICS COMMITTEE in
writing, at ISAR?s headquarters: ISAR, PO Box 38613, Los Angeles, CA 90038-0613
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