Exploring Perceptions of Death and their Social Manifestations : A Comparative Analysis

Abstract

This research is an exploratory inquiry, intended to comparatively study and understand the differences in experiences and perceptions of death and dying, and the manner in which these differences manifest themselves in the individual’s social life. The research explores i) the variations in experiences and perceptions of death of individuals, ii) the rationalizations that these individuals employ to cope with death, iii) the various underlying meanings and symbols attached with death. The researcher has situated this inquiry in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, and specific sites within this area, including a hospital, an old age home, a graveyard, a Rescue 1122 center, a shrine, and a university. A number of qualitative techniques and tools have been employed to collect data, including the use of key informants, focused group discussions, in-depth interviews and field notes. The sample of respondents has been purposively selected from each of the specific sites mentioned above. The study produced comprehensive knowledge about the concept of death and dying as understood by the individual, and the impacts that this understanding has on the social life of the individual.