Kerry Thornley

Date of Birth: April 17, 1938

Zodiac Sign: Aries

Date of Death: November 28, 1998

Biography

Kerry Wendell Thornley was an American author, philosopher, and countercultural figure best known for co-founding the Discordian Society, a parody religion that worships Eris, the Greek goddess of chaos and discord. Born in Whittier, California, Thornley grew up with a keen interest in philosophy, literature, and politics. He served in the United States Marine Corps, where he met Lee Harvey Oswald, an association that would later embroil him in controversy following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Thornley’s early literary work, including his book “The Idle Warriors,” was influenced by his fascination with anarchism and discordianism. In addition to his philosophical pursuits, Thornley was an active participant in the 1960s counterculture movement, contributing to underground magazines and engaging in various forms of political activism. Despite his involvement in several conspiracies and legal battles, Thornley remained a prolific writer and thinker until his death. His work has had a lasting impact on the fields of philosophy, satire, and countercultural studies.

5 Interesting Facts about Kerry Thornley

1. Kerry Thornley co-founded the Discordian Society with Greg Hill in 1958.

2. He wrote the first book on Lee Harvey Oswald, titled “The Idle Warriors,” before the Kennedy assassination.

3. Thornley was subpoenaed by the Warren Commission due to his acquaintance with Oswald.

4. He was an influential figure in the countercultural and underground press movements of the 1960s.

5. Thornley published works under various pseudonyms, including “Lord Omar Khayyam Ravenhurst.”

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Kerry Thornley

1. “Truth is stranger than fiction, but it is because Fiction is obliged to stick to possibilities; Truth isn’t.”

2. “Chaos is the law of nature; order is the dream of man.”

3. “I am a chaos worshiper, and chaos is the most creative force in the universe.”

4. “Discordianism is not just a religion, it’s a revolutionary act.”

5. “The truth is what we make it; reality is a collective hallucination.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Kerry Thornley’s highest net worth is difficult to estimate, as he was not known for accumulating significant wealth. His contributions were more intellectual and cultural than financial.