Mirror Neuron System In Social Cognition

Question 1

Mirror neurons

Answer 1

Allow the simulation of the physical acts of others to better understand intention
Activated -
• When we observe the motor actions of others
• When we perform motor actions ourselves

Question 2

Role in social cognition

Answer 2

Argue there are also mirror neurons for simulating the emotional experience of others (empathy)

A defective system could be an explanation for autism - contributing to a lack of theory of mind

Question 3

Evaluation

Answer 3

• LACOBONI - fMRI 24 pateints high levels of mirror neurone activity in the inferior frontal gyrus - an area of the brain involved with intentional thinking

• Opens the door to biological drug therapy to improve a sense of empathy and social communication in people with autism

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• Link between ASD and mirror neurons may be overstated as there is evidence that not all ASD sufferers have atypical mirror neuron patterns

• highly reductionist - ethical principles and societal norms in the role of learning are also important