Mirror Neurons

Mirror neurons are brain cells which are believed to be involved in our ability to understand the behavior of others. They are activated both when an individual performs a task and when they observe a task being performed. In this way, mirror neurons allow humans (and some animals) to imitate, learn from and understand others’ actions. Studies of mirror neurons have been key in furthering our understanding of autism, language learning, and motor control. Additionally, research has also linked mirror neurons to empathy and social behavior.