Orgone Energy
Wilhelm Reich's theory of a universal life energy (orgone) that he claimed could be accumulated, measured, and used for healing, weather control, and anti-gravity.
OVERVIEW
Orgone energy is a pseudoscientific concept proposed by psychoanalyst Wilhelm Reich in the 1930s. Reich claimed to have discovered a universal life energy that permeated the atmosphere, which he called orgone. He built 'orgone accumulators' — boxes lined with alternating layers of organic and metallic materials — that he claimed could concentrate orgone energy for therapeutic purposes. Reich also claimed orgone energy could control weather and influence living organisms. The U.S. FDA investigated Reich, obtained an injunction against the sale of orgone accumulators, and burned his books in 1956. Reich died in prison in 1957. Despite the scientific rejection, orgone theory persists in alternative health and conspiracy circles.
KNOWN FACTS
Reich published detailed descriptions of his experiments and devices
Some researchers have reported measurable temperature differences in orgone accumulators
Cloudbuster experiments have been conducted with claimed weather modification results
Reich's work was taken seriously enough for the FDA to investigate and prosecute
Orgone theory has influenced alternative health practices worldwide
CLAIMS
Orgone energy is a universal life force that can be accumulated and directed
Orgone accumulators can heal cancer and other diseases
Cloudbusters (orgone devices) can control weather and end droughts
The FDA's suppression of Reich was a conspiracy to suppress alternative medicine
Orgone energy is related to UFO propulsion and zero-point energy
EVIDENCE FOR
Reich published detailed descriptions of his experiments and devices
Some researchers have reported measurable temperature differences in orgone accumulators
Cloudbuster experiments have been conducted with claimed weather modification results
Reich's work was taken seriously enough for the FDA to investigate and prosecute
Orgone theory has influenced alternative health practices worldwide
EVIDENCE AGAINST
No controlled scientific study has validated orgone energy's existence
The orgone accumulator's effects can be explained by placebo and suggestion
Reich's experiments lacked proper controls and were not replicable
The FDA's action was based on Reich making unsubstantiated medical claims
Cloudbuster weather modification claims have not been scientifically validated
OPEN QUESTIONS
No open questions recorded.
SOURCES
TIMELINE
Reich claims discovery of orgone energy
Reich builds orgone accumulators and cloudbusters
FDA files injunction against Reich
FDA burns Reich's books and devices
Reich dies in federal prison