Researchers have developed a new framework to understand why people are fascinated by events centered around themes of death, disaster, and suffering. These "dark events" include everything from historical commemorations to cultural festivals and horror experiences. The study highlights six key concepts that shape our attraction to these events, such as commercialization, public engagement, and the symbolic presence of death. Understanding these factors could offer deeper insights into societal behavior and collective memory.

A recent study found increased brain activity in two dying patients, but it does not indicate consciousness. The research revealed gamma wave bursts in comatose patients with epilepsy, but no evidence these were tied to conscious experiences.