The Skeptics Society & Skeptic magazine

Episode 156
Magic: Sex, Drugs and Rocket Propulsion

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Warning: The subject matter of this episode may not be suitable for children. Listener discretion is advised.

The history of magic and science converged in the explosive life of Jack Parsons. By day he was a pioneer in the field of rocket propulsion whose work helped win WWII. By night he performed magic rituals and hoped to invoke powers which would change the world. Researcher Jerry Drake joins us to tell the astonishing story of Jack Parsons, a man whose short life seemed to intersect with some of the most intriguing figures in pop-culture, religion and science, but whose career contributions seemed on the verge of being forgotten until very recently. Parsons is the subject of a new CBS television series, based on the book Strange Angel.

Of Interest

• Cameron Parsons Foundation
• The art of Marjorie Cameron
• Article on the Trippy Art of Marjorie Cameron Parsons

Music

• Intro Music: Spire by Twilight Tipi
• Monstertalk Theme: Monster by Peach Stealing Monkeys

The views expressed on this program are not necessarily the views of the Skeptics Society or Skeptic magazine.