The phenomenon of near-death experiences (NDEs) has fascinated humanity for centuries but remains famously difficult to define and study. This book presents a unique source, integrating historical, clinical, psychological, and neuroscientific approaches toward a modern scientific understanding of NDEs. Featuring exciting clinical and experimental details about processes in dying brains, it examines the physiological and psychological underpinnings of this extraordinary phenomenon. Chapters offer science-based accounts of NDEs as a natural part of the human condition informed by our biology and the remarkable capacities of the brain. By proposing that the origin of NDEs can be found in the physiology-dependent mental processes of the experiencer as expressed in altered states of consciousness, this book provides up-to-date insights for psychologists, psychiatrists, neuroscientists, and philosophers alike.

‘Raymond Romand and Günter Ehret, with the assistance of Steven Laureys, have produced a valuable scientific overview of the fascinating phenomenon of near-death experiences. Their careful critical evaluation of the literature leads them to unequivocally reject paranormal explanations of such experiences in favour of brain-based explanations.’

Christopher French - Emeritus Professor, Goldsmiths, University of London

‘With refreshing clarity, this work probes near-death using principles of neuroscience, psychology and philosophy, bringing us to a broader understanding of human spiritual consciousness.’

Kevin R. Nelson - Emeritus Chief of Medical Staff and Professor of Neurology, University of Kentucky

‘This book offers a fascinating journey into the heart of near-death experiences, grounded in a rigorous scientific approach. It provides a clear and in-depth synthesis of their phenomenology, the conditions under which they arise, and the profound questions they raise about the nature of consciousness.’

Thomas Rabeyron - Professor of Clinical Psychology and Psychopathology, University of Lyon and Honorary Research Fellow, University of Edinburgh