Abstract

Discusses the question of life after death from parapsychological, philosophical, and theological perspectives. It is noted that this question is as old as mankind and that the way in which it is approached is a reflection of prevailing values and beliefs. It is suggested that contemporary scientific, empirical thinking, which insists on the verifiability of reality and negates the existence of unobservable phenomena, has given rise to parapsychological examination of life after death. Intuitive thinking and philosophical reflections, which indicate that life is not contingent on physical existence, are discussed. The concepts of immortality, absolute death, and resurrection are discussed from a Christian perspective. The relationship between parapsychology and religious belief is examined. It is suggested that parapsychology can provide evidence in support of religious belief in life after death. The concept of reincarnation is discussed. (French abstract)