Michael A. Aquino Jr.: Military Officer, Political Scientist, and Religious Founder

Michael A. Aquino Jr. (October 16, 1946 – September 1, 2019) was an American political scientist, military officer, and religious founder. He served as a specialist in psychological operations and military intelligence in the United States Army and later became known for his role in establishing a new religious organization.

Aquino earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and graduate degrees, including a Ph.D. in political science with an emphasis on international relations and psychological operations. He began his military career as an Army officer and became involved in psychological warfare and intelligence work, including assignments with the U.S. Army’s 4th Psychological Operations Group. His work involved research, doctrine, and instruction on psychological operations and information activities.

In 1975, Aquino joined the Church of Satan and later became involved in internal disputes within the organization. In 1975 he founded the Temple of Set, a religious organization centered on a form of Setianism, which Aquino described as an initiatory occult religion. He served as its High Priest and was a central figure in its development. The Temple of Set has operated as a nonprofit organization in the United States, issuing publications and conducting member activities focused on individual self‑development within its religious framework.

Aquino published writings on religion, psychology, and ritual practice. He was also involved in debates and controversies over the separation of personal beliefs and professional conduct, including public scrutiny of his military background in psychological operations and his religious affiliation. Aquino retired from the U.S. Army with the rank of lieutenant colonel.

After leaving active military service, Aquino continued to lead and represent the Temple of Set in organizational roles, speaking at conferences and contributing to internal and external publications. He died on September 1, 2019.

Organizations associated with Aquino’s life include the U.S. Army, the 4th Psychological Operations Group, the Church of Satan (early involvement), and the Temple of Set. His work intersected with academic fields such as political science, psychological operations, and comparative religion.