Which other motives have been proposed for the Tate-LaBianca murders?

While the prosecution famously argued that Charles Manson ordered the Tate-LaBianca murders to incite a race war known as "Helter Skelter," this theory has been challenged by various commentators and Family members over the years. Several other motives have been proposed:12

• Freeing Bobby Beausoleil: Some believe the murders were intended to help free fellow Family member Bobby Beausoleil, who had been arrested for the murder of Gary Hinman. By staging copycat killings at the Tate and LaBianca homes, Manson allegedly hoped to convince authorities that the true killer of Hinman was still at large.12
• Retaliation against Terry Melcher: Another theory suggests Manson wanted to frighten music producer Terry Melcher, who had previously lived at the Cielo Drive residence. Manson was reportedly angry at Melcher for reneging on promises to provide him with a recording contract. It has also been suggested that the house itself was targeted as a symbol of the musical establishment that had rejected Manson.12
• Seeking Attention: Some Family members, including Susan Atkins and Charles "Tex" Watson, claimed the murders were committed simply to gain notoriety and perform a crime that would "shock the world".2