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The Goetheanum, Switzerland รณ world headquarters for the Anthroposophical Society
Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925), founder of Waldorf education
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RUDOLF STEINER & ANTHROPOSOPHY
Rudolf Steiner
Born in 1861, Rudolf Steiner studied science in Vienna and edited Goethe’s scientific writings before earning a doctorate in philosophy. In the early twentieth century, he became increasingly well known as an author and lecturer throughout Europe. He wrote more than 50 books and gave over 6,000 lectures on philosophy, science, evolution of consciousness, religion, agriculture, medicine, art, and education. Rudolf Steiner’s work in these fields led to new approaches to medicine, agriculture, economics, art, architecture, and to a new form of education.
In 1919, Emil Molt, the director of the Waldorf Astoria Cigarette Factory in Stuttgart, Germany, asked Rudolf Steiner to found a school for the factory workers’ children. Steiner trained the teachers, developed the curriculum, and worked closely with faculty until his death in 1925. Because of its philosophy and innovative methods, the original Waldorf school gained international recognition and inspired the establishment of new Waldorf schools throughout the world. There are now 180 Waldorf schools in North America, and over 1,000 worldwide.
Anthroposophy
Anthroposophy is the philosophy developed by Rudolf Steiner, who characterized it as "a path of knowledge, to guide the Spiritual in the human being to the Spiritual in the universe." Anthroposophy is derived from the words anthropos=human being and sophia=wisdom, and it is both a world-view and a path of inner development.
Waldorf teachers are students of anthroposophy, who strive to bring this philosophy to fruition through their life and work. Anthroposophy aids teachers in their preparation and in their work with the students; it also illuminates and gives meaning to the subjects of the curriculum. Waldorf teachers do not teach anthroposophy to the students, for we have no wish to interfere with anyone’s religious or philosophical orientation, for these are the province of the individual and the family.
Waldorf Education and Religion
Waldorf education seeks to bring renewed meaning and purpose to all areas of human endeavor and to redevelop the connections between science, art, and religion. It is an education that is deeply religious in the literal sense of the word, for in Latin the word religio means "to link again." As teachers we strive to strengthen our students’ links to the world of spirit, to the world of humanity, and to the world of nature. We do so with great respect for the individuality, heritage, and spiritual freedom of all students and their families.
In their study of literature, history, and geography, students learn about some of the world’s great religions. The images and ideas in these religions nourish the students’ souls and help them appreciate the rich cultural heritage of other peoples while enhancing their sense of identity.
At Hartsbrook we do not celebrate religious rituals but we sometimes learn songs and poetry from different religions. We also celebrate festivals from various traditions to deepen our students’ connection to the natural world, enhance their appreciation for other people, and foster a sense of community.
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