Expériences de Mort Imminente, authored in French by Renaud Evrard with Ronald Beurms, has been awarded the Parapsychological Association Book Award for its exceptional contribution to the field of near-death experience (NDE) research. This well-written and engaging book offers a fresh and comprehensive exploration of NDEs, challenging established ideas and providing innovative perspectives that have the potential to reshape our understanding of this profound phenomenon.
Evrard’s work stands out for its balanced approach, weaving between the spiritual and neuropsychological interpretations of NDEs. He meticulously examines the existing research in psychology, neurology, and clinical studies, shedding light on the archetypal differences in NDEs across various cultural contexts, including Western societies, Africa, Japan, and other parts of Asia. The author’s neutral stance allows readers to explore the complexities of NDEs without bias, encouraging critical thinking and deeper inquiry.
One of the book’s strengths is its thorough investigation of the various aspects of NDEs that are often taken for granted, such as the classic “Moody syndrome.” Evrard questions established definitions, the scales used to measure NDEs, and even the very concept of the moment of death itself. His inquiry reveals that these foundational ideas are not as settled as they may appear, prompting readers to reconsider their assumptions about NDEs.
Evrard’s exploration into the role of the fear of death, rather than just near-death experiences, adds a unique dimension to the discourse. He posits that the sense of survival and hyperfocus observed during these moments can be better understood through the work of philosopher Henri Bergson. By applying Bergson’s concepts of two types of memory—habit memory and pure memory—Evrard introduces the idea of a dissociation between “disincorporated consciousness” and “hyperincorporated consciousness” during NDEs. This innovative proposition offers new avenues for research and has the potential to significantly advance our understanding of NDEs.
The book is commended for its clarity, accessibility, and the groundbreaking nature of its content. The text is both enjoyable and thought-provoking, providing readers with a wealth of information while also challenging them to explore new perspectives. Evrard’s interdisciplinary approach enriches the discussion, making the book a valuable resource for researchers and enthusiasts alike.
The Parapsychological Association recognizes Expériences de Mort Immediate for its scholarly rigor, innovative thinking, and significant contributions to the ongoing conversation about NDEs. Evrard’s ability to bridge various fields of study and his fresh insights into NDE research have earned the book a well-deserved place as a recipient of the Parapsychological Association’s Book Award.
The Parapsychological Association Book Award was established in 2015 to recognize books in the field of parapsychology that make significant contributions to science and to the cultural conversation about the implications of parapsychology. Visit the PA Book Award Page to learn more about the award and previous winners.
