Mirror Neurons

Definition

Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that activate both when an individual performs a specific action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. These neurons help us understand others' actions, intentions, and emotions by simulating their experiences in our own brains.

Example

You may see your friends laughing and clapping after watching a funny video. As you watch them, your mirror neurons fire as if you were laughing and clapping yourself. This helps you feel connected and understand why they’re happy without having to experience the same stimulus.

Why it Matters

Mirror neurons play a role in empathy, social bonding, and learning. They help us to "feel" others' emotions, predict their actions, and build strong relationships. While other brain regions contribute to these processes, mirror neurons are an important component in the process of bridging individual actions with collective understanding.

See Also

• Modeling