Exploring Consciousness at the Edge of Life: A Scientific Review of Near-Death Experiences

Abstract

Near-death experiences (NDEs) have long fascinated researchers, as they occur at the intersection of life, death, and consciousness. These experiences typically include phenomena such as out-of-body sensations, feelings of peace, and visions of light. The present study aims to explore scientific explanations of NDEs and their relationship with consciousness. A systematic review of existing literature was conducted using databases such as Google Scholar and PubMed. The findings suggest that NDEs may be linked to neurobiological processes such as reduced oxygen supply, abnormal brain activity, and neurochemical changes. At the same time, some reports challenge purely biological explanations, raising questions about the nature of consciousness. The study concludes that while science provides partial explanations, consciousness during near-death states remains not fully understood, indicating the need for further interdisciplinary research.