-Wilhelm Reich (1897–1957) was an Austrian psychoanalyst and scientist known for his controversial theories on human sexuality, energy, and health. Born in Austria, he studied under Sigmund Freud and became an influential figure in psychoanalysis. Reich believed that repressed sexual energy was a central cause of neuroses and developed the concept of "orgone energy," a universal life force that he claimed influenced physical and mental health.
Reich's work diverged from mainstream psychoanalysis, as he focused on the connection between sexual liberation and societal health. He developed methods to harness orgone energy, including the creation of orgone accumulators, which he believed could cure illnesses, including cancer.
In the 1940s, Reich's theories became increasingly controversial. U.S. authorities viewed his practices as pseudoscience, leading to a ban on his work and the destruction of his orgone accumulators. Reich was imprisoned in 1956 for violating an injunction and died in 1957. His ideas continue to inspire debates in psychology and alternative medicine.