An Introduction to Anthroposophy: Rudolf Steiner's World View

by Francis Edmunds

Athough 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 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

Genres: Philosophy, Spirituality

208 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2005

Reviews

[Sverre · Rating 3 out of 5]

As far as it goes Edmunds made a valiant effort to capsulate Steiner's cosmology into a digestible portion of comprehensibility. Personally I admit defeat in succeeding to absorb Steiner's superhuman concepts to a point where my wandering mind can become sufficiently disciplined to achieve a Nirvana of conceptual clarity.

Steiner's metaphysics was Christ-centred, as that concept is understood to include the whole of mankind in a divine plan of progressive material and spiritual development. He proposed that Jesus was the first human manifestation to exemplify the "I AM" ethos which served to awaken mankind's consciousness to the brotherhood of all men (gender inclusive).

Other than for those with an IQ somewhere above 155 it is advisable to restrict the intake of Steiner's material to small chunks, constantly rereading, contemplating and reviewing, trying to develop the expansive vision that he had. Steiner had an inner sight that perceived the supernatural as being integral with the natural. He strived to see order where others saw chaos. He developed a complex body of philosophy which gave birth to hundreds of Waldorf schools and child development centres. They are probably the best known fruits of his labours. Lesser known are developments in special needs education and therapy, medicinal cures, biodynamic agriculture and nutrition, the natural and behavioural sciences, the arts and non-sectarian religion.

This book merely skims the surface of the vast body of material that was Steiner's legacy. It can be a good starting point for seekers who have a curiosity about his complex philosophy. It is definitely recommended as an overview before attempting to tackle his cerebral writings in their undiluted form.

[Tiina Mahlamäki · Rating 4 out of 5]

Koska otin teoksen kirjaston uutuushyllystä, oletin sen olevan uusi. No, painos on vuodelta 2005, mutta kirja kirjoitettu jo 1980-luvulla. Mutta ei se sitten ollutkaan ongelma, kun osasi asennoitua lukemiseen. Teos onnlupauksensa mukaisesti johdatus antroposofian perustajan Rudolf Steinerin keskeisiin ajatuksiin ja käsitteisiin. Se on ymmärrettävä ja selkeä. Kirjoittaja on antroposofian sisäpiiriläinen, joten lukijan on muistettava lukiessaan myös se - eli kriittistä silmää tarvitaan.