Universal spirit or dilettante

It was only over the years that Steiner worked his way into ever new subject areas. He now spoke about major spiritual-historical contexts, attempted to shed light on the path of humanity from ancient myths and religions to modern natural science and finally outlined certain practical implications. Everything that Steiner is best known for today — from Waldorf schools to anthroposophical agriculture — he basically only initiated in the last years of his life. Nevertheless, it is completely in keeping with the logic of the anthroposophical approach: not only to stimulate a new world view, but also a much more comprehensive cultural change.

While critical voices often emphasized the contrast between Steiner's early work and his late work and accused him of having developed in a highly contradictory manner, he said: «I moved forward in such a way that I added new areas to what lived in my soul.»

Incidentally, he was almost always inspired by certain questions that were raised to him. In a way, he was constantly reacting to the problems raised in his surroundings, and he was probably also convinced that a spiritual teacher could and should never simply lecture, but only ever be effective out of a connection with his fellow human beings.

In general, one could say that there is an imbalance in today's view of Steiner. Almost everyone — supporters and opponents alike — see above all the spectacular aspects of his work: his statements on the most difficult questions, from the knowledge of karma to the therapeutic effects of meteorite dust. His down-to-earth advice on inner training and conscious, balanced personal development receives much less attention. At the beginning there is not enlightenment or clairvoyance, but rather «innermost human humility» and a strong work on oneself. Steiner: «This path is not tumultuous.» Maybe that's why he's not very popular.