This collection of lectures contains Steiner’s strongest statements on the issues of human relationships in a spiritual community such as the Anthroposophical Society. Occasioned by an unfortunate “scandal” involving people influenced by psychoanalysis, these lectures present Steiner’s comprehensive assessment of Freud’s work and of psycho­analysis as a whole. As Steiner shows, our physical life, including human sexuality, has spiritual roots; looking to sexuality for the expla­nation of human behavior is therefore looking in the wrong direction.

In emphatic, forceful language, Steiner makes clear that becoming part of a spiritual community entails responsibilities, indeed, a new way of being. Above all, members must become actively interested and engaged in the concerns of the group, rather than simply wanting to benefit from it. It is essential for members to realize that a spiritual community is not just a club of like-minded people, but a living entity, a being that needs the care and respect of its creators. Throughout these lectures the attentive reader will gain much insight into the nature of the spiritual life and the role of the teacher in that life. This book will be of interest to anyone involved in a spiritual practice or a spiritual community.