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Abstract

A consciousness model of the near-death experience (NDE) is developed that incorporates the work of Tart (1975), Wilber (1980), Grof (1984), and Grosso (1984). This model views the NDE as an altered state of consciousness triggered by the threat of imminent physical death. The individual is propelled without warning into modes of consciousness containing psychic and spiritual elements representing higher-order developmental stages but bearing the particular stamp of a death-related archetype. In temporarily visiting stages closer to full completion of his or her developmental possibilities, powerful but unfamiliar potentials may be activated that can be fully actualized only through sustained spiritual work.

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The Near-Death Experience as an Event in Consciousness

Abstract

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