Journal of Near-Death Studies

Magazine Overview

This document is a book review from the Journal of Near-Death Studies, Volume 11, Issue 4, published in the Summer of 1993. The review, authored by John B. Alexander, Ph.D., from the Los Alamos National Laboratory, focuses on the book "The Omega Project: Near-Death Experiences, UFO Encounters, and Mind at Large" by Kenneth Ring, published by William Morrow in 1992. The book is 320 pages, priced at $20.00.

Book Review: The Omega Project by Kenneth Ring

The reviewer, John B. Alexander, introduces "The Omega Project" as Kenneth Ring's significant step into the domain of Unidentified Flying Objects (UFOs), a departure from his prior work primarily focused on near-death experiences (NDEs).

Ring's Background and Approach

Ring begins the book with an apologia for entering the UFO field, having previously focused on the more conventional "straight" field of near-death studies. His pioneering work in NDEs is noted as being well-known to readers of the journal. In his earlier book, "Heading Toward Omega" (1984), Ring began to broaden the scope of NDE research, examining extraordinary experiences reported by individuals not close to death, and exploring the meaning behind these experiences.

"The Omega Project" is presented as a continuation of this expanded research. Alexander cautions readers that Ring makes assertions that may be perceived as profound or outrageous, depending on their viewpoint. While Ring, as a scientist, includes caveats about his findings, Alexander suggests this might be interpreted as "waffling" by some. Ring himself admits that his theoretical constructs do not fully explain all aspects of the phenomena studied.

Book Structure and Content

The book is structured into sections that first describe the phenomena, supported by anecdotal data to provide a basic understanding for readers who may be knowledgeable in one area but not others. This introductory material is described as interesting and readable.

The second section details the results of an extensive study involving 264 participants who reported NDEs and UFO encounters (termed "abductees"). The reviewer notes the controversy surrounding the term "abductee," quoting Steven Greer's perspective on the ambiguity of such experiences.

Two limited control groups were also included, composed of individuals interested in these phenomena. Alexander points out that this self-selected sample is not unbiased and that participants were predisposed to the subject. Ring acknowledges other caveats that must be considered before extrapolating his findings.

A significant point of critique raised by Alexander is that Ring relied solely on respondents' self-reports, without conducting independent investigations to verify their assertions. This subjective aspect is identified as a potential major flaw in the scientific protocol.

Research Objectives and Findings

The project had three main purposes:
1. To assess the relevance of psychological factors, such as fantasy proneness, to the genesis and form of extraordinary encounters.
2. To determine if individuals reporting NDEs and UFO encounters were more open to paranormal experiences as children.
3. To ascertain the extent to which persons relating extraordinary encounters were sensitive to "alternate realities" as children.

Ring categorizes the aftereffects into two main types: psychophysiological changes and shifts in belief and personal values. He also attempts to address weaknesses in previous NDE studies by providing a more robust statistical basis for assessing value changes.

Key Findings and Assertions

Alexander highlights that Ring's findings suggest individuals with extraordinary experiences frequently have a predisposition or sensitivity to alternate realities. Childhood abuse and trauma are identified as significant factors contributing to psychological absorption, although other factors can also stimulate this ability. Importantly, the study groups did not consist of psychologically dysfunctional individuals, and Ring is careful not to pathologize the experiences based on the experiencers' backgrounds.

The reported psychophysiological changes are described as extremely interesting, with six areas identified as subject to significant change in both NDE and UFO experiencers. These include increased sensitivity to electricity, malfunction of electronic equipment, increased psychic ability (healing, psychokinesis), altered temperature and blood pressure, expanded mental functioning, emotional fluctuations, and reduced need for sleep.

Ring makes a significant assertion about the "Omega Prototype," suggesting that the meaning behind these events points to the evolution of the human species. This concept of human speciation is not new, but Ring's thesis is presented as thought-provoking, though readers must evaluate it based on the provided data.

The reported shifts in beliefs are also significant, often leading to an entirely new worldview, characterized by a more positive outlook on life and a focus on love as the ultimate value.

Electromagnetic Model and Conclusion

In Chapter 9, "Heading Toward Oz," Ring shifts to an electromagnetic model as a potential cause for anomalous experiences. Alexander finds this shift abrupt and the chapter complex, potentially distracting from the rest of the text. He notes that he had to contact Ring directly to clarify its meaning.

The final chapter explores the meaning behind "Earth changes" scenarios reported by experiencers. Ring's interpretation is considered controversial but important and timely, especially in relation to global environmental issues, referencing Al Gore's "Earth in the Balance."

Throughout the book, Ring frames extraordinary experiences as part of a prototypical initiation process, drawing parallels with shamanic or initiatory procedures. This raises questions about the nature and purpose of such initiations.

Alexander concludes that "The Omega Project" is a provocative and valuable work, well worth careful consideration by both scientists and lay readers, serving as an excellent starting point for theoretical dialogue and future research.

References

• The review includes references to:
• Gore, A. (1992). *Earth in the balance: Ecology and the human spirit*. Boston, MA: Houghton Mifflin.
• Ring, K. (1984). *Heading toward omega: In search of the meaning of the near-death experience*. New York, NY: William Morrow.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this review are the intersection of near-death experiences and UFO encounters, the psychological underpinnings of these phenomena, and their potential implications for human evolution. The review adopts a critical yet appreciative stance, acknowledging the thought-provoking nature of Ring's work while also pointing out potential scientific limitations and areas of complexity.