The Bion Experiments: On the Origin of Life

The Bion Experiments on the Origin of Life–first published as Die Bione in 1938 in a limited German edition–represents a cornerstone in Reich’s scientific development. This work documents a series of experiments conducted in Oslo in 1936-37 in which Reich applied the formula of tension→charge→ discharge→relaxation, derived from his research on the function of the orgasm, to the microscopic biological world, thereby opening a route to the understanding of the origin of life. This work is divided into two parts: the first, a detailed report on the experiments; the second, Reich’s conclusions and an exposition of his research method.The Bion Experiments provides a unique insight into Reich’s scientific method, and makes available the experimental material essential to understanding his later work with cancer and orgone biophysics. Read more