Student Independent Projects Psychology 2015: The Influences and Implications of Near Death Experiences

Abstract

As defined by Greyson and Stevenson (1980) near death experiences are “refer[ed] to an altered state of consciousness commonly occurring during an episode of unconsciousness, as a result of a life-threatening condition” (Agrillo, 2011). This incredible phenomenon is of interest to many scientists - as a result, it is regarded as an important topic in the area of cognitive neuroscience (Agrillo, 2011). Despite the significance that near death experiences has in the world of science, there has been a minimal amount of scientific investigation undertaken (Agrillo, 2011). Due to this lack of exploration, the origin of near death experiences are predominantly unknown. Even though there is no concrete explanation(s) of this phenomenon, there are multiple biological interpretations or theories that have been suggested. It is important to note that the area of near death experiences not only receive attention from scientists but also scholars of religion. Near death experiences and religiosity are strongly related because this phenomenon has the potential to answer the most well-known philosophical question of whether there is life after death (Agrillo, 2011). Alternately, religion has multiple influences on the perception of near death experiences. In the present paper the biological and religious influences or implications of near death experiences has been considered, along with the biological theories underlying the occurrence of this phenomenon. Additionally, the biological and religious implications and aftereffects of near death experiences have been discussed.