Rudolf Steiner

Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) was born in Austria. He found his life's work in the realms of consciousness and cognition.
His techniques for the development of awareness to nature's cycles, daily meditation and concentration practices, and clear critical thinking can lead individuals to reach spiritual levels of consciousness safely. He believed working along with the spiritual worlds enriches the life of the individual and the world.
A university student of mathematics, science and philosophy in Vienna, he later earned a doctorate from the University of Rostock. He edited the scientific writings of Goethe, whose approach, based on intensified, selfless observation of nature, became a source of inspiration for his own work. Steiner's doctoral dissertation dealing with Fichte's theory of knowledge was later expanded and published as Truth and Science. In 1894, he published The Philosophy of Freedom, which he felt to be his most important philosophical work.

Steiner brought forth out of his spiritual experiences an abundance of scientific, medicinal, agricultural, social, educational, architectural, and artistic renewal. Steiner called this science of spirit, Anthroposophy, meaning "wisdom of the human being." Anthroposophy is non-religious, and enhances many Buddhist, Christian, Muslim, and other traditional practitioners endeavors.

Author of almost thirty books, Steiner also gave approximately 6,000 lectures on a wide range of subjects. He initiated Waldorf education, biodynamic farming and gardening, an approach to the care and education of the handicapped, anthroposophical medical work, and an art of movement called eurythmy.
"My meeting with Rudolf Steiner led me to occupy myself with him from that time forth and to remain always aware of his significance. We both felt the same obligation to lead man once again to true inner culture. I have rejoiced at the achievements his great personality and his profound humanity have brought about in the world." Albert Schweitzer

An introduction to Anthroposophy, Rudolf Steiner’s world view

Although many of the practical activities that arise from Rudolf Steiner’s work are well publicized, the philosophy that stands behind them remains largely hidden. Thousands of parents send their children to Rudolf Steiner (Waldorf) schools around the world, while biodynamic farming (the Demeter label) and anthroposophical medicine are gaining increasing recognition. Yet despite all this and much other visible work, few are aware of the richness of Rudolf Steiner’s world view, anthroposophy.

Steiner’s original contribution to human knowledge was based on his ability to conduct ‘spiritual research’, the investigation of metaphysical dimensions of existence. With his scientific and philosophical training, he brought a new systematic discipline to the field, allowing for conscious methods and comprehensive results. Francis Edmunds’ introduction - here revised and updated - covers the fundamental areas of Steiner’s philosophy, beginning with a brief outline of his life. Edmunds describes anthroposophy as a ‘way to higher knowledge’, and outlines the threefold nature of the human being. He delves into the secrets of human evolution and history, the basic elements of child development, and many further aspects of Steiner’s vast teaching. This is a warm and clear introduction to anthroposophy which will prove of value to anybody wishing to understand Steiner’s work. Francis Edmunds

FRANCIS EDMUNDS began his studies as a medical student, but the driving force in his life was a quest for insight into the nature of the human being. This journey led him to anthroposophy and his vocation as a teacher. In 1962 he founded Emerson College, an adult educational establishment based on Rudolf Steiner’s work. He travelled and lectured extensively around the world, and authored the perennially popular An Introduction to Steiner Education. Francis Edmunds died in 1989.

See further: www.steinercollege.org