

He was never in it for personal growth he was in it for financial gains. He was a mere grifter, his opinions were for sale. There is a lot of money in right wing grifting when you reach his level of notoriety. His personal beliefs conveniently always pointed in the direction of money. Worth about $12m when he was executed. He believed in his bank accounts.
Not just the far right. Also was a staple in the new-atheist movement, their conviction was that science had solved all big dillemas already. Just a few minor details to work out. And they have been far more influential.