Simulation and mirror neurons. Evidence in humans and monkeys

Hausarbeit (Hauptseminar) , 2011 , 13 Seiten , Note: 1,7

Philosophie - Theoretische (Erkenntnis, Wissenschaft, Logik, Sprache)

In the last years there has been evidence for a special class of neurons. These so-called mirror neurons are located in the premotor cortex of monkeys and equally show activity during the performance and the observation of particular actions. Some authors interpret this function as the neural correlate of mind-reading, the ability to attribute mental states to others. Furthermore this interpretation is valued as support to a particular theory of mind theory; simulation theory, which claims that we understand the inten-tions, beliefs and emotions of others by simulating their mental processes on the basis of our own. In this paper I will review evidence for mirror neurons being the neural correlate of mind-reading. To accomplish this I will also review evidence for mirror neurons in monkeys and humans and give a short outline of simulation theory.

Table of Contents

Abstract

1. Introduction

2. Simulation Theory

3. Mirror neurons as the neural correlate of mind-reading
3.1. Mirror neurons in monkeys and humans
3.2. Mirror neurons and mind-reading

4. Conclusions

5. References

• Hochschule: Heinrich-Heine-Universität Düsseldorf (Institut für Philosophie)
• Veranstaltung: Philosophy of Neuroscience
• Note: 1,7
• Autor: B.A. Nicolas Lindner (Autor:in)
• Erscheinungsjahr: 2011
• Seiten: 13
• Katalognummer: V180662
• ISBN (eBook): 9783656035435
• ISBN (Buch): 9783656035176
• Sprache: Englisch
• Schlagworte: Spiegelneuronen, mirror neurons, Neurowissenschaften, neuro science, Fremdpsychisches, other mind, Simulationstheorie, simulation theory, theory of mind, mindreading, Philosophie des Geistes, philosophy of mind, Simulation, social cognition, Soziale Kognition