Consciousness and cerebral: an ancient dilemma
Since ancient times, the debate on the nature of consciousness has been one of the most intriguing in the field of philosophy. Philosophers like Plato and Aristotle raised the idea of the soul as a separate entity from the body, a concept that contrasts with our contemporary understanding that considers consciousness as a product exclusively material linked to the brain.
Materialism vs. Metaphyss: A Fight of Perspectives
In today’s world, materialistic vision is predominant. On the one hand, there are those who claim that consciousness is the result of neural processes, a position known as reductionist materialism. On the other hand, there is an emerging perspective that suggests that consciousness could have qualities that go beyond brain activity, a notion that some call emerging materialism.
Consciousness and experiences close to death
One of the topics that has again attracted attention is the phenomenon of experiences close to death (EPM). Despite our scientific knowledge, we have not yet found a satisfactory explanation that covers these extraordinary experiences that many people have told after being clinically dead.
Pioneer Research in EPM
Recently, Dr. Luján Comas has begun the Light project, which involves fourteen hospitals with the aim of exploring the experiences of patients who have returned from death. This project adds to a series of previous studies, such as that of Pim Van Lommel, which analyzed cases of 344 patients more than two decades ago.
The philosophical vision of consciousness
In this context, philosophers such as Bernardo Kastrup and Roger Penrose provide fascinating perspectives. Kastrup argues that consciousness is the basis of reality, while Penrose suggests that it has a quantum nature, which is related to the foundations of the universe.
Kastrup I Penrose: A GIR to metaphysics
Both theories challenge the traditional idea that the brain is the origin of consciousness. Instead, they propose that the brain act as an ‘antenna’ that receives and experiences a conscience that transcends the limitations of time and space.
Reconsidering the EPMs: beyond the matter
Thus, EPMs could not be simple hallucinations caused by a failure brain, but phenomena that reveal a deeper dimension of reality. This perspective opens a new horizon in the understanding of consciousness and its continuity beyond death.
Final reflections
In a world that is often carried away by materialism, it is essential to explore the ideas that challenge conventional thinking. Research on EPMs and philosophical contributions could be the key to better understanding the nature of consciousness and its relationship with the universe, opening the door to new possibilities of existence beyond what we consider real.