Thanatology

Thanatology is the practice of studying death or “deathlore.” The study of death doesn’t consider the philosophical aspects or meaning of life. It examines the psychology of individuals, their families, communities and cultures as it relates to the dying process.

The etymology of thanatology goes back to the worship of the Greek god Thanatos. Have you ever heard the phrase, “Death, and his brother, sleep?” Greek mythology’s Thanatos was the god of nonviolent deaths and Hypnos was the god of sleep.

Thanatology treats death as a process and can provide more insight into becoming death positive. Thanatology can help you face your own death and deal with the emotions of someone else’s. Learn more about those who study thanatology, what the study of thanatology means and how it can influence our views on death.

Thanatology today is a very broad field. It’s useful in a variety of practical applications. Many thanatologists are useful as psychologists, consultants for hospice care facilities as death doulas and more.

Thanatology focuses on a variety of social and ethical questions. Debates on assisted suicide, for instance, are spurred by thanatology. Other moral questions, such as the right to die, euthanasia, and more, are all part of debates spearheaded by thanatology.

It is important to understand the emotional and physical aspects of death, as well as the individual, societal and cultural ramifications. That’s why the field of thanatology is such an important and ever-evolving one.