DeepSummary
In this podcast episode, Dan Harris interviews Sebastian Junger, a best-selling author and former war reporter, about his near-death experience and subsequent investigation into the possibility of an afterlife. Junger recounts the harrowing details of suffering a ruptured aneurysm that nearly killed him, and the visions he had of his late father speaking words of comfort to him.
Junger discusses his journey of exploring near-death experiences from a scientific and rational perspective, including the neurochemical explanations offered by doctors and scientists. However, he admits that one aspect remains unexplained - why those nearing death often see deceased loved ones, even those they didn't know had passed away.
The episode delves into the mysteries of quantum physics and how concepts like consciousness, parallel universes, and a universal consciousness might hold answers about what happens after death. Junger shares his perspective on finding comfort in the idea of rejoining a collective consciousness, while acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding these ideas.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Near-death experiences often involve visions of deceased loved ones, a phenomenon science cannot fully explain.
- Quantum physics presents mysteries that challenge our understanding of reality and consciousness.
- The concept of a universal consciousness, though unproven, offers a potentially comforting perspective on the afterlife.
- Junger's near-death experience instilled in him a profound appreciation for the present moment and the extraordinary nature of existence.
- Human connection and support are essential components of a meaningful life.
- While grappling with existential questions, Junger acknowledges the limitations of human understanding.
- Embracing awe and reverence for existence can be a path to finding solace amidst life's uncertainties.
- Junger's journey highlights the interplay between rational inquiry and the pursuit of deeper meaning.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “I'll take care of you. You can come with me.“ by Sebastian Junger
- “Why is it that only the dying see the dead? The doctors, the families, the relatives, no one else sees, like Aunt Maude up in the ceiling, right?“ by Sebastian Junger
- “It may be that testing for a universal consciousness requires the consciousness testing itself and which may be a logical impossibility.“ by Sebastian Junger
- “The fact that we take care of each other when we need each other most, that is what saves us psychologically and physically. It's what makes life worth living, and it may, frankly be the most essential component of existence.“ by Sebastian Junger
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Episode Information
Ten Percent Happier with Dan Harris
Ten Percent Happier
5/27/24
The surprisingly common experience of near death experiences and what science still can't explain about them.
Sebastian Junger is the #1 New York Times Bestselling author of The Perfect Storm, Fire, A Death in Belmont, War and Tribe, and In My Time of Dying. As an award-winning journalist, a contributing editor to Vanity Fair and a special correspondent at ABC News, he has covered major international news stories around the world, and has received both a National Magazine Award and a Peabody Award.
In this episode we talk about:
- Junger’s near death experience and the impact it had on him
- The conclusions he came to after investigation the possibilities of an afterlife
- The mysteries of quantum physics and what they might tell us about life and death
- How he believes we can all experience awe on a daily basis
Related Episodes:
How Thinking About Death Can Improve Your Life | Alua Arthur
Neil DeGrasse Tyson on Why Having a “Cosmic Perspective” Will Help You Do Life Better
George Saunders on: “Holy Befuddlement” and How to Be Less of a “Turd”
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