Benjamin Dykes received his PhD in Philosophy from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He has seven years' experience as a college instructor, concentrating on the ancient and medieval philosophy that informs much ancient and medieval astrology, and many years' experience in ritual practice in the Western Mystery Tradition, including the Golden Dawn, Wicca, and Thelema.

Since earning his Diploma of Medieval Astrology studying with Robert Zoller, Ben has been active in translating and publishing works that focus upon medieval astrological techniques. His own text, Using Medieval Astrology is available through his website at www.bendykes.com . He has also recently translated Abu Mashar's Flowers of Astrology , and the eagerly anticipated Book of Astronomy by Guido Bonatti, which is due for release in July 2007. Upcoming works include selected works in mundane, horary, and natal astrology by Masha'allah, Sahl ibn Bishr's Introduction, 50 Judgments, Questions, Elections, Prediction and Al-Kindi's The Forty Chapters .

Continuing his research into what moves and inspires astrologers, Garry Phillipson recently interviewed Professor Dykes to get his views on how medieval astrology and magic still play an important role in modern astrological practice.