Of Dignities Calvin in "Scientific Astrology" says:- "A planet in its own Sign, unless
retrograde or seriously afflicted by the malefics, is as one who is master of his own house and
goods. In its Exaltation it is strong, but less so than were he his own master. In its Detriment
it is weak, as one in his neighbor's house and not master thereof. In its Fall it is as one who is
poverty-stricken and without power."
Of Mutual Reception he says: "When two planets are in each other's Signs, even though in
evil aspect to one another, the effect is beneficial, as of people exchanging courteous social
amenities."
As to Accidental Dignities, he says: "A planet is strong if it is in an angle of the Figure, swift
in motion, direct, and overwhelmingly in good aspect with other planets."
As to retrograde motion he says: "It tends to bring out the introspective rather than the
objective qualities of the native, and is generally synonymous with belated or denied
benefits."
Another generalization based upon the Accidental Dignities of the Geocentric Figure
stipulates that "When the Moon is higher than the Sun, the personality and sensibilities
usually rule. With their positions reversed the character will dominate the career. If both are
below the horizon, the life will be correspondingly unfortunate."
James Wilson expressed doubt concerning the efficacy of some of the dignities, and cited the
Ptolemy dictum that "Planets are strong in the world when they are oriental, swift in motion,
direct, and increasing in light; and strong in the Nativity when angular or succedant,
particularly in the south or cast angles."
The following Table shows the Essential Dignities and Debilities:
PLANETS......RULER..............DETRIMENT...........
EXALTATION....FALL
Sun..........Leo................Aquarius............
Aries.........Libra
Moon.........Cancer.............Capricorn...........