Anthroposophy
Based on the ideas of Rudolf Steiner's 'spiritual science', Anthroposophy is a further development of Theosophy. Major differences from the Theosophical Society are the emphasis on developing artistic impulses, the practical focus of Antroposophy, and on the role of Christ.Steiner defined Anthroposophy as 'a path of knowledge, to guide the Spiritual in the human being to the Spiritual in the universe'. It advocates that we are not mere observers of a self-contained reality. According to Steiner, reality only arises at the juncture between the spiritual and the physical (i.e. 'where concept and percept meet'). This bears no small resemblance to Rene Descartes' assertion that imagination was what unified mind and body into a full being.
Both views share a focus on discipline: The anthrosophist's aim is to become 'more human' by becoming more conscious and deliberate about one's thoughts and deeds. One may reach higher levels of consciousness through meditation, observation and openness over a lifelong 'quest'. Most religions follow some similar pattern.
Anthroposophists view human beings as consisting of three members: the body, the soul and the spirit. This view is thoroughly outlined in the books 'Theosophy', and 'Occult Science'. The Epistemic basis for Anthroposophy is contained in the seminal work: 'The Philosophy of Freedom' (in which Steiner provides a thorough treatment of Kant's 'Critique of Pure Reason').
Members of the movement also practice homeopathy and use the theory that a plant treats diseases in organs which look similar to parts of the plant.
Some practical results of Anthroposophy include work in: Architecture (Goetheanum), Bio-dynamic Farming, Childhood Education ( Waldorf Schools), Medicine (Weleda), Philosophy (The 'Philosophy of Freedom'), Eurythmy ('the poetry of movement'), and centres for helping the mentally-challenged (Camphill Villages).
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