On death and dying

  

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, a Swiss-American psychiatrist, gained worldwide acclaim through her groundbreaking work in near-death studies and her seminal book, On Death and Dying (1969). In this book, she introduced the "Kübler-Ross model," commonly known as the five stages of grief. Her work has deeply influenced not only how we understand grief but also how we perceive the human experience of loss and recovery. Kübler-Ross once noted, “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, suffering, struggle, loss, and have found their way out of the depths.” This observation highlights the profound resilience inherent in the human spirit.

However, not everyone finds their way out of these depths. Many, overwhelmed by their circumstances, seek external solutions to their internal turmoil, hoping for a miraculous savior to resolve what they perceive as injustices inflicted upon them. In recent times, this desire for a savior has manifested in the rise of figures who claim to be the answer to their followers' prayers, promising retribution against nebulous entities like the 'deep state.' This term, though formally defined as a clandestine network operating within the government, has been co-opted and twisted by some into a political weapon.

The narrative spun around this supposed deep state plays into the fears and frustrations of those who feel left behind by societal changes—demographic shifts, economic challenges, and technological advancements that have reshaped the world in ways that can feel alienating and threatening. It creates a compelling story: a hidden enemy is responsible for all personal and societal woes, and only by overthrowing this enemy can justice and order be restored.

This story, however, is largely a fantasy, an oversimplification of complex global developments that cannot be ascribed to a single cause or cabal. The reality is that many are suffering from genuine issues—job displacement, social instability, and a sense of being forgotten by a rapidly advancing world. Yet, the solution lies not in seeking vengeance against fictitious villains but in addressing these real and pressing challenges through thoughtful, inclusive social and economic policies.

The politicization of these feelings of abandonment and loss is not new. History is replete with examples of political figures exploiting public fears for personal and ideological gain. What is particularly dangerous today is how these exploited emotions are intertwined with misinformation and conspiracy theories, notably around electoral integrity and national identity. Such narratives not only exacerbate divisions but also divert attention from the necessary work of genuinely addressing the root causes of societal discontent.

As Kübler-Ross eloquently put it, the most beautiful people are those who overcome their adversities, not those who remain entrenched in them or those who exploit them for personal gain. The real battle is not against shadowy external forces but against the internal despair that prevents individuals from moving forward. This battle requires recognition of the real sources of hardship and a collective effort to create a more inclusive and empathetic society.

The challenge, therefore, is not just individual but societal. How do we construct a narrative that embraces change and addresses real grievances without resorting to blame and exclusion? How do we empower individuals to engage constructively with the world around them, rather than retreating to the comfort of conspiracy and resentment?

Reflecting on Kübler-Ross's insights about beauty emerging from struggle, our focus must be on fostering resilience and understanding, encouraging individuals to navigate through their defeats and losses without falling prey to the allure of false saviors. This journey is essential for healing not just individuals but the very fabric of our society, ensuring that the depths of despair are not a permanent dwelling place but a passage to greater understanding and cooperation. (My AI chatbot, Sophia, edited this article using Chat GPT4o .)