Near-death Experience
Definition and Overview
A near-death experience (NDE) is a profound personal event often associated with a sense of detachment from the physical body and a journey into a transcendent domain. NDEs are typically reported after an individual has been pronounced clinically dead or very close to death. They can occur during a variety of circumstances, such as during cardiac arrest, general anesthesia, childbirth, accidents, or suicide attempts.
Characteristics
NDEs are characterized by a variety of features, which can include feelings of peace and joy, a sense of being outside one's physical body (OBE), moving through a tunnel, communication with light, encountering deceased relatives or spiritual beings, a life review, a moment of decision, and a return to the body. Not all these features are experienced in every NDE, and the order and duration can vary widely.
Cultural and Historical Context
NDEs have been reported throughout history and across cultures. They are not exclusive to any one religion or belief system, and they have been described by people of all ages and backgrounds. The term "near-death experience" was coined by Dr. Raymond Moody in his 1975 book Life After Life, where he interviewed 150 people who had experienced these phenomena.
Scientific Explanations
There are numerous scientific theories that attempt to explain NDEs. Some researchers propose that NDEs are a form of hallucination caused by various physiological and psychological factors, such as lack of oxygen to the brain (hypoxia), the release of endorphins, or the body's neurochemical responses to trauma. Others suggest that NDEs may involve non-local consciousness or other dimensions of reality that we do not yet fully understand.
Psychological Impact
NDEs often have a profound impact on the individuals who experience them. Many report a permanent reduction in fear of death, increased belief in an afterlife, and a greater appreciation for life. Some also report difficulties in adjusting to everyday life after their NDE, including challenges in relationships and a sense of alienation from mainstream values and beliefs.
Research
Research into NDEs has been conducted in various fields, including psychology, neurology, and parapsychology. Studies have explored the prevalence of NDEs, their triggers, their common features, and their effects on individuals' lives. Despite the wealth of anecdotal reports, NDEs remain a controversial and poorly understood phenomenon.