Death, Dying and the Afterlife

Death is the horizon against which our lives unfold. Knowledge of mortality has inspired much human activity—religion, philosophy, arts and science have all been driven by our understanding of death. This ten-week course provides a thoughtful, interdisciplinary exploration of death: the fear of death, the process of dying, grief, and humanity’s diverse beliefs about what, if anything, lies beyond this life. Drawing from philosophy, psychology, medicine, theology, history, and culture, participants will explore how death and thoughts about immortality shape life.

This Great Course, taught by Mark Berkson, PhD, will explore topics such as: death’s place in our lives, defining death, Jewish, Christian, and Islam’s view of death and immortality, near-death experiences, and other relevant insights. Perhaps the value of death is to appreciate more fully the gift of life.

Learning Outcomes

• Explain major biological, psychological, ethical, cultural, and spiritual perspectives.
• Describe the processes of grief and healthy bereavement.
• Evaluate claims concerning near-death experiences from scientific and spiritual perspectives.
• Reflect on how awareness of mortality can influence personal values, relationships, and life purpose.