Thanatology (than•a•tol•o•gy |ˌθanəˈtäləjē | )
noun
The study of human aspects of death and the associated grief and rituals. (Wiktionary)
Let us begin this journey together. . . Let us pray always for one another; let us pray for the whole world.
—Pope Francis, March 13, 2013
—Pope Francis, March 13, 2013
Rocky Mountain Thanatology Society is dedicated to the open-minded, sincere, well-informed exploration of the mysteries of death. Such a study—seminars, discussion groups, reading, interaction with relevant professionals—can yield a deeper understanding of why homo sapiens is the only species to recognize death and memorialize its dead. Often, this study provides the student with clearer vision on the path of life.
Thanatology encompasses cultural, social, historical, financial, legal, psychological, emotional, and spiritual aspects (among others)—a vast inquiry. The study of death is also intensely personal. When we honestly confront our mortality, we may discern our deepest loves, fears, and beliefs.
Thanatology has an important place in the continuum of clinical care, mostly through chaplains, hospice workers, social workers, and funeral professionals. Rocky Mountain Thanatology Society opens the study to a wider audience. Our study will begin discussions and introduce participants to a variety of concepts. Our study stands on Judeo-Christian principles, but all are welcome to the discussion.
“The human aspects of death” in the definition above include those of our most remote ancestors and the many, varied cultures that make up human history. From evidence in ancient caves to modern memorials using digital media, we have remembered those who have gone before us. Thanatology meets anthropology, so to speak.
The various belief systems held dear by billions of us all deal with the topic of death and the afterlife. Some address death in more detail and more colorfully than others, but all search for the “how,” the “why,” and the “where do we go from here?” The human soul yearns to know what is beyond and the status of those who have gone before. Thanatology meets philosophy and spirituality.
Then we encounter the practical. While many of us have heard of wills, powers-of-attorney for medical care, palliative care, hospice, and funeral pre-planning and may even know their importance, a surprisingly low percentage of us have inquired further. Still fewer have put these tools into place. Our study includes interaction with professionals in a wide range of fields. Thanatology meets medicine, law, bioethics. . . the list grows longer every day.
So thank you for visiting. Please visit often as we will present new resources and learning opportunities frequently. We welcome you to study and learn with us.