Mirror neurons

Abstract

Mirror neurons discharge both when a macaque monkey performs an object-directed action, such as grasping a peanut, and when the monkey observes another individual performing the same action, such as when the monkey sees the experimenter grasp a peanut. Thus, these neurons "mirror" others' actions as if one would perform them oneself, providing a previously unexpected, direct link between individuals. This entry summarizes the most important findings on mirror neurons in monkeys and related findings on mirroring in humans.