Rude? No...just frank.

[James Randi]

Garrison: the three alternatives you gave re OOBEs seem to me to be quite
valid. Where is the insult in suggesting that someone has suffered a
delusion? Or an hallucination? Can anyone think of ANY OTHER
possibility, except that it's an invention -- a lie?

You've stated the situation succinctly, but the facts are offensive to
many.

I agree with your assessment.
James Randi.

[Steve Gray]

James wrote:
>
> Garrison: the three alternatives you gave re OOBEs seem to me to be
> quite valid. Where is the insult in suggesting that someone has

> suffered a deluson? Or an hallucination? Can anyone think of ANY

> OTHER possibility, except that it's an invention -- a lie?
>
> You've stated the situation succinctly, but the facts are offensive to
> many.
>
> I agree with your assessment.
> James Randi.

Steve Gray:
I'm about as skeptical as they come, with a scientific/engineering
background. HOwever the OOBE strikes a chord. I distinctly recall having
high fevers as a child and seeming to float above my body. The sensation
was quite intense. So far as know, I was not otherwise hallucinating,
etc.
But this does not mean that I think there's something
extra-natural going on.

[Stanley L. Moore]

----- Original Message -----
From: Steve Gray
>
> Steve Gray:
> I'm about as skeptical as they come, with a scientific/engineering
> background. HOwever the OOBE strikes a chord. I distinctly recall
having
> high fevers as a child and seeming to float above my body. The
sensation
> was quite intense. So far as know, I was not otherwise hallucinating,
> etc.
> But this does not mean that I think there's something extra-natural
> going on.
>

These hallucinations are very common. Lots of people have had them.
Back in the good old days ('60s) I was able to arrange for these OOBEs
easily :) Far out maaann!
Some of them were wonderful and awe inspiring. None were frightening.

The brain is a complex chemical and physical system and its functions
can be easily disrupted not only by drugs, but also by drumming,
chanting, fasting, dancing, fatigue, fear (adrenaline) and high fever as
you mention and certain diseases like schizophrenia. The problem arises
when people try to assign a supernatural cause to a natural albeit
complex phenomenon. I can see the lure of the easy explanation as
opposed to rational ones. Especially they can be very intense and
arouse strong emotions. Take care, and watch what you smoke <G>

Stanley L. Moore
--
"The eye strays not while under
the guidance of reason." Publius Syrius
www.imagephysique.com