Between Life and Death: What Near-Death Experiences Reveal About Consciousness

Near-death experiences (NDEs) are mysterious events reported by people who come close to dying or who believe they are in life-threatening situations. They affect 4–9% of the general population and nearly one in four critically ill patients. Reports often describe feelings of peace, moving through a tunnel, seeing a bright light, encountering spiritual beings, or experiencing an out-of-body sensation. Some people, however, report frightening or “hellish” experiences.

The term “near-death experience” was popularized in the 1970s by physician Raymond Moody, though accounts of such experiences go back to the 19th century. While NDEs have been recorded across cultures and religions, details often reflect personal beliefs. Christians may see Jesus, Hindus may see Brahma, and Buddhists may encounter transitional states between reincarnations. Despite cultural differences, the core features remain strikingly similar.

Scientists have proposed both biological and psychological explanations. Some believe NDEs are caused by brain changes during oxygen loss, surges of neurotransmitters, or REM sleep-like states. Others suggest they are protective psychological responses, such as hallucinations that help the brain cope with trauma. Psychedelic drugs like DMT and ketamine can produce experiences nearly identical to NDEs, strengthening the argument for a neurochemical basis. Still, some researchers, and many survivors, see them as evidence of life after death.

Survivors of NDEs often experience long-term changes. Many lose their fear of death, reevaluate their priorities, or shift careers to seek more meaningful work. Distressing NDEs, on the other hand, can cause trauma and deep anxiety.

Ultimately, scientists admit they may never be able to fully explain NDEs. Research is limited, and ethical concerns prevent direct study of the dying brain. For now, society must rely on the powerful and varied testimonies of those who return from the threshold of death.

Read the full article “Between Life and Death: What Near-Death Experiences Reveal About Consciousness” by Leslie Alan Horvitz

🔭   This summary was human-edited with AI-assist.