The Evolution of Consciousness

13 lectures, 2 addresses, Q&A, Penmaenmawr, Wales, August 18–31, 1923 (CW 227)

According to the research of initiate Rudolf Steiner, humanity is in a continual process of transformation and evolution. Modern consciousness, based primarily on sensory perception and abstract logic, differs considerably from the consciousness of ancient human beings. Steiner tells us that the ancients saw human beings as microcosms, or concentrations, of cosmic laws and activities. The loss of such knowledge has led to an existential quest for meaning and even the cul-de-sac we know as atheism.

In these comprehensive lectures, delivered to an English audience, Steiner discusses the very real possibility of reconnecting to the cosmos today. He explains how we can develop higher faculties of consciousness―what he calls imagination, inspiration, and intuition―and vividly describes life after death and how individuals progress through the planetary spheres. In these spheres, he tells us, tasks and purpose for future incarnations are prepared in cooperation with spiritual beings of the heavenly hierarchies. The lectures culminate in a call for us to take charge of our own destiny through conscious, free development of our spiritual potential.

This new edition of a fundamental work from Rudolf Steiner features a revised translation, as well as previously unavailable addresses and Steiner’s answers to questions from his audience.

This volume is a translation from German of Initiations-Erkenntnis (GA 227).

Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) was born in the small village of Kraljevec, Austro-Hungarian Empire (now in Croatia), where he grew up. As a young man, he lived in Weimar and Berlin, where he became a well-published scientific, literary, and philosophical scholar, known especially for his work with Goethe's scientific writings. At the beginning of the twentieth century, he began to develop his early philosophical principles into an approach to systematic research into psychological and spiritual phenomena. Formally beginning his spiritual teaching career under the auspices of the Theosophical Society, Steiner came to use the term Anthroposophy (and spiritual science) for his philosophy, spiritual research, and findings. The influence of Steiner's multifaceted genius has led to innovative and holistic approaches in medicine, various therapies, philosophy, religious renewal, Waldorf education, education for special needs, threefold economics, biodynamic agriculture, Goethean science, architecture, and the arts of drama, speech, and eurythmy. In 1924, Rudolf Steiner founded the General Anthroposophical Society, which today has branches throughout the world. He died in Dornach, Switzerland.