Telephone number:	+31 (0)71 527 2008
E-Mail:	hans.gerding@wxs.nl
Faculty / Department:	Faculteit der Geesteswetenschappen, Instituut voor Wijsbegeerte
Office Address:	Witte Singel-complex Witte Singel 25/M. de Vrieshof 4 2311 BZ Leiden Room number 1.03c

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Research
My work focuses on a both philosophical and scientific exploration of exceptional human experiences. On the one hand philosophical reflection on the outcomes of empirical research into such experiences may result in a substantial contribution to philosophical discourses on essential themes such as consciousness and identity, life and death, subjectivity vs. objectivity, and spirituality. On the other hand, such a reflection may inspire and guide the devising of hypotheses and the methodology of ongoing experimental and phenomenological research into exceptional human experiences.

Philosophical reflection in this field may not only give rise to enriched and deepened diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in psychology, but also connects with the actual social situation. In today’s multicultural society the growing demand for spirituality will benefit by both a multiform and experience oriented approach. To put it briefly, my fascination in this field concerns the philosophical and scientific research into the limits of human potential, the existential and philosophical consequences of such research, and its meaning for spirituality in everyday life.

Link: Leiden Scientists and Scholars