Changes

==Wilhelm Reich's Research on Orgones and Life Energy==

==Wilhelm Reich's Research on Orgones and Life Energy==

[[image:WReich.jpg|left|thumb]]

[[image:WReich.jpg|left|thumb]]

As a student of Sigmund Freud, Reich tried to describe the libido and the driving energy of mental functioning according to Sigmund Freud as a quantitatively measurable physical energy which he called orgone. He conducted a series of experiments which made him come to the conclusion that his theory of a specific life energy was proven valid. According to Reich, life energy research was opposed by a campaign led by communists, fascists, and capitalists. He saw a full blown delusional conspiracy against himself in this context. He even accused Albert Einstein of participating in this conspiracy. Analysis of the experimental design and the use of modern measurement techniques, however, showed that all phenomena occuring may be explained by classical physical effects. An indication of a specific life energy could not be found. The investigation of Reich's original equipment in the Wilhelm Reich Museum in Rangeley, USA, revealed serious deficiencies in the measurement technique used and suggested that Reich did not achieve an adequate knowledge of basic concepts and methodology of experimental physics, and of measuring technique in particular, to interpret the effects observed by him in an appropriate manner. Measurement errors and experimentor effects on the part of Reich were revealed in several instances. However, this does not prevent supporters of his "life energy concept" to continue believing in its existence.

As a student of Sigmund Freud, Reich tried to describe the libido and the driving energy of mental functioning according to Sigmund Freud as a quantitatively measurable physical energy which he called orgone. He conducted a series of experiments which made him come to the conclusion that his theory of a specific life energy was proven valid. According to Reich, life energy research was opposed by a campaign led by communists, fascists, and capitalists. He saw a full blown delusional conspiracy against him in this context. He even accused Albert Einstein of participating in this conspiracy. Analysis of the experimental design and the use of modern measurement techniques, however, showed that all phenomena occuring may be explained by classical physical effects. An indication of a specific life energy could not be found. The investigation of Reich's original equipment in the Wilhelm Reich Museum in Rangeley, USA, revealed serious deficiencies in the measurement technique used and suggested that Reich did not achieve an adequate knowledge of basic concepts and methodology of experimental physics, and of measuring technique in particular, to interprete the effects observed by him in an appropriate manner. Measurement errors and experimentor effects on the part of Reich were revealed in several instances. However, this does not prevent supporters of his "life energy concept" to continue believing in its existence.

==Vegetotherapy==

==Vegetotherapy==