ABSTRACT
Perhaps everyone throughout the ages has wondered about the possibility of life after death and about the possible reality of some higher being or God-like supernatural figure. In fact, many people have spent their entire lives wondering, and often worrying, about the answers to these fundamental questions and have dedicated their lives, and have even died, for these questions. Some have acted with great certainty while others have been challenged by many nagging questions that they find deeply troubling. Various academic disciplines and scholarly experts have offered thoughtful reflections about these questions over the centuries. For much of history, the religious and spiritual leaders, such as ordained clerics and theologians, were the most likely experts weighing in on these matters. During recent, and more secular decades, scientists and medical practitioners, such as doctors, have been the preferred experts to turn to for understanding and guidance.
