Although today Astrology is rarely mentioned in scientific terms, it was considered a science in the middle ages. Philosopher-theologians like St. Albert the Great (a.k.a. Albertus Magnus) made staggering inroads to Astrology using conjecture as their primary tool. In the 13th and 14th century, the movement of heavenly bodies and their effects on other objects was a primary area of conjecture. There was also great debate over astronomy and astrology and their relationship to one another. St. Albert had many influential contemporaries in the early study of Astrology such as Nicholas Oresme, Thomas Brandwine, John Buridan, and William of Ockham. Albert and his peers were in a unique position because they were closely allied with the church and with science. Although under very close scrutiny, these scientists were able to weave church doctrine with their discoveries and avoid disillusioning the general population.
St. Albert the Great (c. 1206-1280) and his contemporaries were scholars who applied theology and philosophy to science and mathematics. Many of these men were able to use their knowledge in uncharted territory with surprising accuracy (Lindberg 69). Thomas Brandwine, John Buridan, Nicole Oresme, and William of Ockham shared Albert's theological and philosophical background. Their experience in natural philosophy and theology allowed them to interrelate science and theology with authority by using theology and scripture to support their theories. These men's theological background may also explain the lack of friction between Science and the church. The medieval theological scientists could skillfully subordinate whichever doctrine began to cause a conflict. "Indeed they were in an excellent position to harmonize the two disciplines while simultaneously pursuing all manner of hypothetical and contrary-to-the-fact conditions and possibilities" (Lindberg 70).
They did, however, demonstrate a great deal of independence in th...