Training system
The Gurdjieff Work (The Fourth Way)
Gurdjieff’s school of conscious self-development — the Fourth Way of the awakened life in the midst of ordinary activity.
Training system · Founded 1,922 · Fontainebleau, France · Active today
Founded by G.I. Gurdjieff
What it was
G.I. Gurdjieff established the Institute for the Harmonious Development of Man near Fontainebleau in 1922, teaching that most people live “asleep” and can awaken through self-observation, conscious labour and intentional suffering.
Carried on by P.D. Ouspensky, A.R. Orage and Maurice Nicoll, the Work continues through Gurdjieff Foundation groups worldwide.
Its place in the lineage
A distinct esoteric school — neither monk, fakir nor yogi but the “Fourth Way” of the ordinary life — that shaped much of twentieth-century consciousness work.
Founders & leaders
Its tradition
The circle · 8 in the Atlas
Each star is a teacher; colour marks how they were tied to the order. Tap a star to open them.
