ScienceAugust 16, 2026

lucidity

loo-SID-uh-tee

Definition

The quality of being easily understood, clear in thought, or having a high level of mental clarity, especially during moments when consciousness remains sharp despite physical brain impairment.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'lucidus,' meaning 'bright' or 'clear.' It entered English through the French 'lucidité,' retaining the sense of both physical brightness and mental sharpness.

In the news

The article discusses 'terminal lucidity,' a phenomenon where individuals nearing death experience sudden, intense mental clarity. This concept challenges standard materialist views by suggesting consciousness can function independently of a failing brain.

Hotter water? Neuroscientist Christof Koch plans to study NDEs

Read the full article ↗

Walter Bradley Center for Natural and Artificial Intelligence

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