Introduction
John W. Parsons was a groundbreaking rocket scientist and a key figure in the development of modern rocketry, yet his life was equally entwined with occult practices. Parsons was not just a scientist; he was also an avid follower of Aleister Crowley’s teachings and was involved in rituals to summon demonic entities and harness magical power.
Origins
Parsons’ involvement with the occult began when he became a member of the Ordo Templi Orientis (OTO), a secret society linked to Crowley’s Thelema. His interests in both science and the supernatural led to an unusual career, where he tried to blend magical practices with scientific principles.
Theories and Evidence
- The Babylon Working: Parsons is said to have performed the infamous “Babylon Working” with his associate, Jack Parsons. The ritual aimed to summon an incarnation of the goddess Babylon to bring about the coming of the Antichrist.
- Science and Sorcery: Parsons’ attempts to merge rocket science with magical rituals have led to speculation that his scientific success may have been intertwined with occult powers.
- Mysterious Death: Parsons’ death in 1952, under mysterious circumstances, led some to believe that he had crossed dangerous lines in his search for both scientific and supernatural knowledge.
Critical Analysis
While Parsons’ work in rocket science is undeniably influential, the connection between his occult practices and scientific achievements is highly speculative. Many consider his interest in the occult as a personal eccentricity, with little to no influence on his scientific contributions.