Foundations of Near-Death Research: A Conceptual and Phenomenological Map

Landmark Articles in Near-Death Research

This volume is the first of a new book series that draws on landmark articles published in the Journal of Near-Death Studies (JNDS) to provide an overview of the past four decades of basic research within the field of near-death studies.

The anthology of which this volume is part covers the broad spectrum of scientific and academic work published by the International Association for Near-Death Studies (IANDS) and addresses, arguably, some of the most pressing and relevant questions on the nature of near-death experiences (NDEs). By presenting research over the past nearly forty years, this book also offers insights into the history and foundation of ideas within near-death research.

This volume provides a systematic overview—a map—of what scholars have achieved so far within conceptual and phenomenological research in the field. It identifies how nearly forgotten or neglected earlier research trends might inspire and enrich current research and points toward areas still left to be covered. The focus of the chapters moves consecutively from articles on epistemology—How do we approach the phenomenon of NDEs?, to phenomenology—What is the experience of an NDE like?, to ontology—What are NDEs, and who has them?, and, finally, to the wider implications—What do NDEs really mean?.

For all serious students and scholars interested in the field of near-death studies, this collection of some of the most important articles published in the Journal of Near-Death Studies over the last nearly forty years is a must — an indispensable and invaluable resource. Of particular value is the brilliant and incisive historical overview of the field by the editor of this volume, Alexander Batthyány.
-- Kenneth Ring, PhD, author of Lessons from the Light

This wonderful book offers a great opportunity, not only for scientists, philosophers, psychologists and physicians, but also for near-death experiencers and the public, to have a better understanding of the implications and results of NDE research.
-- Pim van Lommel, cardiologist, author of Consciousness Beyond Life

This incredibly insightful book is long overdue. The ground-breaking articles presented in this volume informed how future near-death research was conducted and enabled refinement of methods. A ‘must read’ for anyone interested in this field.
-- Penny Sartori, PhD, author of The Wisdom of Near-Death Experiences

A landmark collection of seminal studies that will be invaluable to neophyte and experienced NDE researchers alike—in one of the most important subjects of evidence-based science and philosophical studies.
-- John C. Hagan III, MD, editor of The Science of Near-Death Experiences