Man or Matter [First Edition]

Rare first edition, first printing in wrapper. Stated at copyright: "First Published MCMLI by Faber and Faber, Limited." A revolutionary evaluation of existence on earth. Full sub-title; "Introduction to a Spiritual Understanding of Nature on the Basis of Goethe's Method of Training Observation and Thought." Fine green full cloth boards, bright gilt spine titles, moderate shelf wear. Pages near fine clean. Stylish inscription at front endpaper: "To Eddie, with much love, from Crissil. Many Happy Returns, 14/2/1952." Exclusive to this first edition are four informative plates in colour and many more in b&w. Bind fine, square; hinges intact. Classy original dust wrapper in light matte green with black titles, moderate shelf wear, discoloration, rub; unclipped 30s net, protected in new clear sleeve. Unique summary for this first edition at front flap. At back flap is description for Goethe's Faust translated by Louis Macneice. Rare near very good first printing in same wrapper. Based upon Goethe's conception of science and Rudolf Steiner's advancing of this model, 'Man or Matter' is a real challenge to the 'one-eyed, colour-blind onlooker', in whom Dr Lehrs personifies orthodox and academic approaches. Many of these views are so contrary, Lehrs finds more immediate favour with the intelligent lay public than with professionals. Persuasive and in vivid, concise and clear approach. Lehrs is skeptical of orthodox science and found the keys he needed when he began studying Steiner. Some of the most interesting chapters here are devoted to the history of ideas Steiner derived from Goethe - also shared by thinkers as Ruskin and Thomas Reid. As mankind enters the future, the acceptance of this technological expansion is often presented as a choice between Man or Matter. In this intellectually stimulating work, Dr. Lehrs demonstrates a world viewpoint that sanely balances the values of the humanities and sciences. This philosophy was originally conceived by that universal man, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, from the 18th into the 19th century. This conception was developed further in early 20th by Rudolf Steiner. Ernst Lehrs goes to the earliest thinkers in science and religion and examines the thought of Newton, Hume, Traherne, Thomas Reid, Rusking and Steiner. Lehrs conclusion, heavily documented and argued, is that rigid dogmas of science have not taken into account the spiritual nature of humanity and we are on the threshold of discovering mind affecting matter. Mind over matter. Spiritual over physical. Originally written during and just after World War II, Dr. Lehr's challenge to orthodox science is startling and often does not fit the molds of acadamia and aroused controversy. Written in clear concise style, these assertions and conceptions will appeal to the lay interested in science and philosophy. Lehrs was born in Berlin and lived for a long time in England. An electrical engineer by training, he was for many years a resident instructor at a Rudolf Steiner Center, Hawkwood College in England. Dr. Lehrs also taught and lectured in America. Printed in Great Britain by Latimer Trend & Co., Plymouth. 378 pages. Insured post. Size: 8vo - over 7¾ - 9¾" Tall.…