Sebastian Junger, a veteran reporter and author of "In My Time of Dying," shares his profound near-death experience that challenged his rational beliefs. He discusses the sudden realization of mortality during a life-threatening incident, exploring emotional connections with loved ones. The conversation dives into the mysteries of consciousness, contrasting scientific views with philosophical insights. Junger also reflects on how parenthood reshapes one's understanding of life and death, urging listeners to engage with these complex themes.
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Junger's Near-Death Experience
Sebastian Junger nearly died at 58 from a ruptured pancreatic artery aneurysm.
Delayed seeking medical attention for abdominal pain, ultimately requiring emergency surgery.
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Close Call and Premonition
If his wife hadn't been present, Junger believes he would have died.
Two nights prior, he had a vivid dream of being dead and leaving his grieving family.
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Encounter with Deceased Father
While being treated, Junger saw a black pit and felt himself being pulled in.
His deceased father appeared, offering comfort and suggesting Junger go with him.
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The Science of Getting from Where You Are to Where You Want to Be
Katy Milkman
In this ground-breaking book, Katy Milkman reveals a proven path to help readers move from where they are to where they want to be. Drawing on her original research and the work of her world-renowned scientific collaborators, Milkman shares strategic methods for identifying and overcoming common barriers to change, such as impulsivity, procrastination, and forgetfulness. The book offers innovative approaches like 'temptation bundling,' using timely reminders, and creating 'set-it-and-forget-it systems' to make change more achievable. It emphasizes the importance of tailoring solutions to specific roadblocks and using science to stack the deck in favor of successful change.
In My Time of Dying
Sebastian Junger
Sebastian Junger's "In My Time of Dying" delves into his near-death experience, exploring themes of mortality, consciousness, and the possibility of an afterlife. The book recounts Junger's personal journey of facing his own mortality after a near-fatal aneurysm. He interweaves his personal narrative with extensive research on near-death experiences, examining various scientific and philosophical perspectives. Junger challenges conventional understandings of death and consciousness, prompting readers to contemplate the nature of existence beyond the physical realm. The book concludes with a thoughtful reflection on the profound impact of his experience and the enduring questions it raises.
Sebastian Junger came as close as you possibly can to dying. While his doctors struggled to revive him, the veteran reporter and avowed rationalist experienced things that shocked and shook him, leaving him with profound questions and unexpected revelations. In his new book, In My Time of Dying, Junger explores the mysteries and commonalities of people’s near death experiences. He joins Sean to talk about what it’s like to die and what quantum physics can tell us about living that countless religions can’t.
Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), host, The Gray Area
The Gray Area with Sean Illing 
