Problems of Society: An Esoteric View

"Whatever turbulent outward events occur in the world, whatever form is taken by things seeking to work their way out of the depths of human evolution, we only really hearken to the true, underlying nature of these events...if we observe the world from a spiritual perspective" (Rudolf Steiner).In seeking to heal the many social crises of our time, Rudolf Steiner urges us to turn away from "fixed principles, theories, or social dogmas" and to rediscover the true nature of the human being. This inner reality- which cannot be understood in materialistic or deterministic ways- is the only basis on which society can be truly founded. Nevertheless, Steiner tells us that it is not enough to speak of well-meaning ideas, unless we also actively work for change- change that begins with each of us.In 1919, a year marked by strong social and political upheavals, Steiner was deeply concerned with social questions. Having published a book on the subject (Towards Social Renewal), he embarked on a maj