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[Near-death experiences: fact and fancy]
M Thonnard1, C Schnakers, M Boly
1Coma Science Group, Centre de Recherches du Cyclotron, Université de Liège, Belgique.
Revue Medicale De Liege
|August 2, 2008
Summary
Near-death experiences, like seeing lights or feeling out-of-body, may stem from temporo-parietal cortex activity. Recent neuroimaging studies offer a neurological explanation, challenging non-physical theories.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
Context:
- Near-death experiences (NDEs) are reported phenomena including bright lights and out-of-body sensations.
- Spiritual and psychological theories attempt to explain NDEs.
- Clinical studies have investigated NDE frequency and triggers.
Purpose:
- To explore the neurological underpinnings of near-death experiences.
- To provide a physiological explanation for out-of-body experiences.
Summary:
- Recent neuroimaging studies implicate the temporo-parietal cortex in the generation of out-of-body experiences.
- These findings suggest a neurological basis for NDEs.
- This research challenges dualistic, non-physical explanations for these phenomena.
Impact:
- Offers a scientific, neurological framework for understanding near-death experiences.
- Rebuffs non-physical or dualistic explanations for out-of-body phenomena.
- Provides a foundation for future research into consciousness and the brain.
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