Response to commentaries on "The ketamine model of the near-death experience ..."
The Journal of near-death studies January 1, 1997 Peer reviewed DOI: 10.17514/jnds-1997-16-1-p79-95. via OpenAlex
Summary
The commentary discusses the influence of set and setting on drug effects and near death experiences (NDEs), noting that some NDEs can be anxiety-inducing, similar to certain ketamine experiences. It highlights that while NDE-like effects are common with ketamine, they are not typical with dimethyltryptamine (DMT). The connection between NDEs and dream sleep is explored, suggesting shared mechanisms, and the potential evolutionary advantage of NDE mechanisms is considered.
Study at a glance
| Key finding | Some near death experiences can generate anxiety similar to certain ketamine experiences, and altered states of consciousness may not require a normally functioning brain. |
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Abstract
The commentators on my paper raised several interesting is sues. Set and setting do influence drug effects, but they also influence near death experiences (NDEs). Some NDEs are very anxiety-generating, just like some ketamine experiences, though frightening NDEs have been ignored by most researchers. High frequency, compulsive ketamine use is rare. While dimethyltryptamine (DMT) may induce NDEs, this is far from typical, while NDE-like effects are typical of ketamine. Rapidity of onset is not related to the capacity of a drug to induce NDEs. The reality of endopsychosins is doubtful, but the reality of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) blocking mecha nisms is not. NDEs and dream sleep may involve similar mechanisms. Al tered states of consciousness do not require a normally functioning brain. Finally, I discuss the possible evolutionary advantage of the NDE mecha nism.