“The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years of Investigation”

“The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years of Investigation” is a comprehensive volume that delves into the intriguing study of near-death experiences (NDEs). Edited by Janice Miner Holden, Bruce Greyson, and Debbie James, this book was published on June 22, 2009. It brings together a team of international experts who present the history, recent developments, and controversies surrounding NDEs. The book emphasizes that as modern medical techniques for resuscitation advance, NDEs are reported more frequently. These experiences go beyond the popular notions of moving through a tunnel or seeing a light. They also encompass instances where individuals, once revived, possess knowledge that cannot currently be explained.

Overview

“The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years of Investigation” is a scholarly exploration into the phenomenon of near-death experiences (NDEs). Edited by Janice Miner Holden, Bruce Greyson, and Debbie James, this book consolidates three decades of research and investigation into NDEs. The volume brings together insights from international experts who present the history, recent developments, and ongoing debates in the field.

The book delves into various aspects of NDEs, including:

The history of scientific NDE research spanning over 150 years.
Detailed accounts of pleasurable adult NDEs and their subsequent after-effects.
An in-depth look at distressing NDEs, challenging the notion that only “good” or positive experiences occur during these events.
Examination of NDEs in children and teenagers.
Comparisons between Western and non-Western NDEs, highlighting cultural differences in experiences.
The relationship between world religions and interpretations of NDEs.
Discussions on veridical perceptions during NDEs, where individuals report perceiving information they couldn’t have known.
Various scientific models proposed to explain NDEs, from physiological to psychological theories.

Throughout the book, the authors grapple with the central question of whether NDEs are purely biological reactions to impending death, shifts in consciousness, or indications of something more profound. The volume serves as a comprehensive resource for those interested in understanding the complexities and mysteries surrounding near-death experiences.

Authors Background

The book “The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years of Investigation” is edited by Janice Miner Holden, Bruce Greyson, and Debbie James. Here’s a brief overview of the authors:

Janice Miner Holden: Janice is an esteemed academic and researcher in the field of near-death experiences. She has contributed significantly to the understanding and documentation of NDEs and their implications. Her role as an editor of this book showcases her dedication to presenting a comprehensive view of the subject, drawing from various studies and perspectives.
Bruce Greyson: Dr. Bruce Greyson is a Professor Emeritus of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences at the University of Virginia School of Medicine. He has been at the forefront of near-death experience research and has served on the faculty of various esteemed institutions, including the Universities of Michigan and Connecticut. Greyson was also a co-founder and President of the International Association for Near-Death Studies and served as the Editor of the Journal of Near-Death Studies. His extensive work and research in the field have earned him national awards and recognition.
Debbie James: Debbie James is a Senior Instructor of Nursing at the University of Texas. Her expertise lies in the medical aspects of near-death experiences, and she has been instrumental in organizing several conferences on the subject through the International Association of Near-Death Studies (IANDS).

Together, these authors have compiled a comprehensive volume that delves deep into the phenomenon of near-death experiences, presenting historical data, recent developments, and addressing the controversies surrounding the topic. Their combined expertise offers readers a holistic view of NDEs, drawing from medical, psychological, and spiritual perspectives.

Impact on Ufology

“The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years of Investigation” primarily focuses on the phenomenon of near-death experiences (NDEs) and does not directly address the subject of ufology, which is the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and their potential implications for understanding extraterrestrial life and advanced technologies. However, the book’s comprehensive exploration of NDEs has indirect implications for the field of ufology in several ways:

Broadening the Discussion: The detailed examination of NDEs in the book has contributed to a broader discourse on anomalous experiences, which includes UFO encounters. By providing a rigorous academic approach to NDEs, the book sets a precedent for how other paranormal phenomena, like UFO sightings, can be studied.
Interdisciplinary Approach: The book’s interdisciplinary perspective, drawing from medical, psychological, and spiritual viewpoints, encourages ufologists to adopt a similar multifaceted approach when studying UFO encounters.
Challenging Skepticism: By presenting well-researched evidence and testimonies related to NDEs, the book challenges the skepticism surrounding such experiences. This can inspire ufologists to present their findings in a manner that addresses skepticism head-on.
Cultural and Global Perspectives: The book’s exploration of NDEs from various cultural and global perspectives can serve as a model for ufologists to understand how UFO encounters might be perceived differently across cultures.

FAQ

What is the main focus of the book?

The book delves into the phenomenon of near-death experiences (NDEs), consolidating three decades of research and investigation into the topic.

Who are the authors/editors of the book?

The book is edited by Janice Miner Holden, Bruce Greyson, and Debbie James.

When was the book published?

It was published on June 22, 2009.

Does the book only discuss positive NDEs?

No, the book examines both pleasurable and distressing NDEs, offering a comprehensive view of the experiences people report.

How does the book approach the topic of NDEs from a cultural perspective?

The book compares Western and non-Western NDEs, highlighting potential cultural differences in experiences.

Conclusion

“The Handbook of Near-Death Experiences: Thirty Years of Investigation,” edited by Janice Miner Holden, Bruce Greyson, and Debbie James, is a seminal work that consolidates three decades of research on near-death experiences (NDEs). The book offers a comprehensive exploration of NDEs, encompassing both pleasurable and distressing experiences. Drawing from various cultural, scientific, and spiritual perspectives, it delves into the complexities and mysteries surrounding NDEs. By addressing controversies and presenting a holistic view, the book serves as an invaluable resource for both scholars and general readers interested in understanding this profound phenomenon.