Mirror Neurons: How We Become What We See

Abstract

Perhaps the most important finding of the last decade in neuroscience, mirror neurons pave the way for understanding such diverse phenomena as the evolution of language, emotional empathy in interpersonal communication, and personal social identity and coherence. Because all communication theory and all assumptions about the way we process images and the impact they have on us must be compatible with neurological research, the impact of mirror neuron research goes far beyond simply furthering our understanding of the brain. Mirror neurons reveal some relatively direct biological functions that underlie many complex theories of how we are affected by visual culture, why and how we imitate media, and ultimately, how we become what we see. This article introduces what mirror neurons are, how they function within the context of human development and the culture as a whole, and the related efficacy of strategic persuasive communication in relation to such significant cultural forces as advertising and video gaming.