| |
| author |
Tyler Cochran-Branson
| | title |
Crossing the Rainbow Bridge: Exploring the Intersections Between Anthroposophy and Contemporary Alt-Right Radicalization
| | abstract |
This thesis analyzes the naturalization of elements of fascism in seemingly progressive spaces,
exploring how this phenomenon plays out in Waldorf schools, on biodynamic farms, and within
holistic medicine. Anthroposophy, a philosophy and New Age Religion created by Rudolf
Steiner in 1912, informs the pedagogy of seemingly hippy-ish and progressive institutions, such
as Waldorf schools, and the farming and health practices of Anthroposophical medicine. By
engaging in a close textual analysis of Steiner's lectures and writings, and contemporary
interpretations of his work, I identify where Anthroposophy intersects with alt-right ideologies
and how it can serve as a pipeline for right-wing radicalization. I explore Steiner's understanding
of health, nutrition and diet, and race to reveal how these ideas have been reproduced and
integrated into Anthroposophical institutions. The paper scrutinizes how Anthroposophical
institutions, notably Waldorf schools, reproduce the work of Steiner while distancing themselves,
or outright denying, the racism and ableism that was foundational to his philosophy. A closer
analysis reveals that many of his writings echo elements of fascism, including the supremacy of
the leader, the need for an integration of a purer community, and the right for the "chosen
people" to dominate. This thesis does not argue that there is a causal relationship between
Anthroposophy and alt-right radicalization; rather, I find that the characteristics of fascism
shared between Anthroposophy and alt-right groups can prime students of Waldorf schools and
members of Anthroposophical institutions for radicalization.
| | school |
The College of Liberal Arts, Drew University
| | degree |
B.A. (2024)
|
| advisor |
Chelsea Ebin
|
| full text | TCochran-Branson.pdf |
| |
