Imagine if every time you saw someone yawn, you couldn’t help but yawn too. That’s kind of how mirror neurons work in our brains! Mirror neurons, first recognized in a scientific paper three decades ago, are a special class of cells that fire not only when we perform an action, but also when we observe someone else performing the same action. However, recent research has shown that mirror neurons are even more fascinating and diverse than initially believed. They exist beyond monkeys and have been found in a wide range of species, including birds and humans. This complex ‘mirror mechanism’ plays a crucial role in social interaction and empathy, allowing us to understand and mimic the actions and emotions of others. If you’re curious to learn more about how these incredible neurons work and their implications for understanding human behavior, check out the full article
Mirror neurons (MNs) were first described in a seminal paper in 1992 as a class of monkey premotor cells discharging during both action execution and observation. Despite their debated origin and function, recent studies in several species, from birds to humans, revealed that beyond MNs properly so called, a variety of cell types distributed among multiple motor, sensory, and emotional brain areas form a ‘mirror mechanism’ more complex and flexible than originally thought, which has an evolutionarily conserved role in social interaction.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.