Death, Immortality, and Eternal Life

This book explores death and the afterlife from various philosophical and theological perspectives, featuring original essays from international scholars. It addresses how death is experienced, surviving death, the value of mortality and immortality, and what an eternal life might be like. It provides a unique framework for extending and reshaping enduring debates around human existence up to and after death.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 210 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2021
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive book delves into the profound and multifaceted realm of death, offering a rich tapestry of perspectives and insights into the possibilities for an afterlife. By incorporating a diverse range of approaches to these subjects, it provides a unique framework for exploring and reimagining enduring philosophical debates surrounding human existence, both during life and beyond.

The book is organized into four main sections, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of death and the afterlife. In the first section, the authors examine how death is or should be experienced, delving into topics such as near-death experiences, the enduring bonds between the living and the deceased, and attitudes toward dying. They explore the emotional, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of death, shedding light on the diverse ways in which individuals and societies perceive and cope with this inevitable event.

The second section delves into the realm of surviving death, exploring the metaphysical implications of human personhood, the nature of time, the true essence of the self, and the nature of the divine. The authors examine the philosophical and theological questions that arise from the concept of mortality and immortality, drawing upon the rich resources of the history of philosophy, meta-analysis of contemporary debates, and analogies between individual death and species extinction. They consider the value of life and the significance of living a meaningful existence, as well as the ethical and philosophical challenges that arise from the desire for eternal life.

The third section explores the concept of an eternal life, envisioning what such a life might entail and the challenges and opportunities it presents. The authors examine the place of selflessness, embodiment, and racial identity in a life that transcends time and space. They explore the potential for personal growth, fulfillment, and the pursuit of knowledge and understanding in an unending existence. They also consider the ethical and social implications of an eternal life, including issues of justice, inequality, and the responsibility of individuals to contribute to the well-being of the collective.

In the final section, the authors offer a speculative and imaginative exploration of what an eternal life might be like, drawing upon a range of philosophical and theological perspectives. They consider the nature of consciousness, the relationship between the individual and the collective, and the possibility of achieving a state of ultimate harmony and fulfillment. They explore the role of religion, spirituality, and metaphysics in shaping our understanding of the afterlife and offer insights into the potential for transcendence and the ultimate destiny of the human soul.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers in the fields of philosophy of religion, theology, and death studies. It provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary examination of the end of life and the possibilities for an afterlife, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience and the complexities of our existence. Through its engaging and thought-provoking essays, the book encourages readers to reflect on the profound questions of death, life, and the nature of the universe, and to explore the rich tapestry of philosophical and theological perspectives that have shaped our understanding of these subjects throughout history.

Weight: 354g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367527907