The Study of Dying

What is it really like to die? Though our understanding about the biology of dying is complex and incomplete, greater complexity and diversity can be found in the study of what human beings encounter socially, psychologically and spiritually during the experience. Contributors from disciplines as diverse as social and behavioural studies, medicine, demography, history, philosophy, art, literature, popular culture and religion examine the process of dying through the lens of both animal and human studies. Despite common fears to the contrary, dying is not simply an awful journey of illness and decline; cultural influences, social circumstances, personal choice and the search for meaning are all crucial in shaping personal experiences. This intriguing volume will be of interest to clinicians, professionals, academics and students of death, dying and end-of-life care, and anyone curious about the human confrontation with mortality.

Author: Allan Kellehear
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Published: 12/01/2009
Pages: 300
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 1.05lbs
Size: 8.80h x 6.00w x 0.50d
ISBN: 9780521739054

Review Citation(s):
Choice 10/01/2010

About the Author
Kellehear, Allan: - Allan Kellehear is Professor of Sociology at the University of Bath, UK.