“The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences”

“The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences” is a groundbreaking book authored by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf H. Smit, published by IANDS Publications in 2016. This book delves into the intriguing subject of near-death experiences (NDEs), challenging the notion that they are mere hallucinations or fantasies. It presents over 100 reliable accounts of perceptions during NDEs that were later verified as accurate by independent sources. These accounts come from everyday people across the globe, many of whom were clinically dead but were able to perceive new vistas of a world beyond the senses and even beyond death.

The authors have meticulously studied and described these convincing and corroborated cases, concluding that there are valid reasons to believe that human consciousness can sometimes be experienced separately from the body. This book is considered a must-read for those interested in the survival of consciousness beyond physical death and has the potential to radically shift the widely accepted materialist paradigm in science. It consists of 410 pages and covers subjects related to body, mind, spirit, and parapsychology, specifically focusing on near-death experiences.

Overview

“The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences” is a comprehensive exploration of near-death experiences (NDEs), authored by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf H. Smit. The book challenges conventional explanations of NDEs as hallucinations or fantasies, presenting a collection of over 100 verified accounts from people all over the world.

The authors meticulously investigate these accounts, many of which were experienced by individuals who were clinically dead. These experiences often include perceptions of a world beyond the physical senses and even beyond death itself. The book serves as a trailblazing effort to compile the most confirmed cases of consciousness beyond death ever assembled.

By carefully studying these cases, including those during cardiac arrest, the authors conclude that there are substantial reasons to believe that our consciousness does not always coincide with the functioning of our brain. They argue that enhanced consciousness can sometimes be experienced separately from the body.

The book is not just an academic exercise; it has profound implications for understanding human consciousness and its survival beyond physical death. It challenges the materialist paradigm in science, opening new vistas for research and philosophical inquiry.

Authors Background

Here’s an overview of the authors of “The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences”:

Titus Rivas: A Dutch author, philosopher, and psychical researcher, Titus Rivas has a keen interest in the study of consciousness and the paranormal. He has written extensively on subjects such as reincarnation, near-death experiences, and animal ethics. Rivas holds degrees in psychology and philosophy and has contributed to various academic journals and conferences. His work often explores the intersection between science, spirituality, and ethics.
Anny Dirven: Anny Dirven is a co-author who has collaborated with Titus Rivas on various projects. Though specific details about her background are limited, her work with Rivas reflects a shared interest in the study of consciousness and paranormal phenomena. She has contributed to research that challenges conventional scientific views on the nature of consciousness and existence.
Rudolf H. Smit: Rudolf H. Smit is a Dutch author and researcher with a background in physics and mathematics. He has a particular interest in near-death experiences and has written and lectured on the subject. Smit’s scientific background provides a rigorous approach to the study of NDEs, and he has been involved in research that seeks to understand these experiences from both a scientific and philosophical perspective.

Together, these authors have combined their diverse expertise to create “The Self Does Not Die,” a book that offers a comprehensive and scientifically grounded exploration of verified paranormal phenomena from near-death experiences. Their collaboration represents a significant contribution to the field of parapsychology and the ongoing debate about the nature of consciousness and its relationship to the physical body. The book reflects a synthesis of scientific inquiry, philosophical insight, and a deep understanding of the human experience.

Reception

The book “The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences” by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf H. Smit has received a generally positive reception, as evidenced by the reviews and ratings on various platforms.

Here’s an overview of the reception:

Positive Reviews and Ratings: The book has been rated 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, with many readers praising its thorough examination of near-death experiences (NDEs).
Investigative Approach: Reviewers have appreciated the authors’ efforts to revisit primary sources or participants for many cases, verifying them as credible. The book also addresses objections raised by skeptics, making it a comprehensive study on the subject.
Impact on Skeptics: While some reviewers have found the evidence compelling, others have noted that the book may not necessarily change the minds of skeptics. One review stated, “Thorough review of the subject, but it will not convince skeptics.”
A Definitive Work: Some readers have considered this book to be a definitive work on the subject of consciousness survival and NDEs. One reviewer commented, “If you are going to read one book on the subject, this is the definitive one.”
Criticism: Some readers found the writing style to be somewhat dry and tedious, but this did not seem to overshadow the overall positive reception.
Influence on Materialism Debate: The book has also been seen as a challenge to materialism, the doctrine that everything can be explained by the interaction of matter and force fields. The evidence presented in the book has been interpreted by some as refuting materialism, making it a significant contribution to the ongoing debate between materialism and spiritual perspectives.

Impact on Ufology

“The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences” by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf H. Smit primarily focuses on the investigation of near-death experiences (NDEs) and does not directly address the subject of ufology, which is the study of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) and related phenomena.

However, it’s worth noting that both NDEs and ufology often fall under the broader category of paranormal or unexplained phenomena. While the book itself may not have had a direct impact on ufology, the rigorous approach taken by the authors in investigating and verifying NDEs could potentially influence the way researchers approach other unexplained phenomena, including UFO sightings.

The authors’ commitment to revisiting primary sources, verifying cases, and addressing objections raised by skeptics sets a standard for thorough investigation. This methodology could be seen as a model for ufologists seeking to study UFO phenomena with a similar level of rigor and skepticism.

Furthermore, the book’s challenge to materialism and its exploration of consciousness survival may resonate with some in the ufology community who are interested in broader questions about human consciousness and the nature of reality. The philosophical implications of NDEs, as explored in the book, could provide a framework for understanding other unexplained phenomena.

FAQ

What is the main subject of “The Self Does Not Die”?

The book explores verified paranormal phenomena from near-death experiences (NDEs), presenting over 100 accounts that were later verified as accurate.

Who are the authors of the book?

The book is authored by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf H. Smit.

When was the book published?

It was published in 2016 by IANDS Publications.

Is the book based on scientific research?

Yes, the authors have meticulously studied and described corroborated cases, providing a scientifically grounded exploration of NDEs.

What is the book’s stance on consciousness and the physical body?

The book argues that there are valid reasons to believe that human consciousness can sometimes be experienced separately from the body.

Conclusion

“The Self Does Not Die: Verified Paranormal Phenomena from Near-Death Experiences” by Titus Rivas, Anny Dirven, and Rudolf H. Smit is a seminal work that delves into the intriguing world of near-death experiences. Through meticulous research and verification of over 100 accounts, the authors present compelling evidence that challenges conventional views on consciousness and the physical body. The book has been well-received for its rigorous investigation and has contributed to the ongoing debate between materialism and spiritual perspectives. Its impact extends beyond the specific subject of NDEs, resonating with those interested in broader questions about human existence and the nature of reality. Accessible to both general readers and academics, it stands as a significant contribution to the field of parapsychology and a must-read for those exploring the mysteries of consciousness and life beyond death.