Mirror Neurons in the Interpretation of Action and Intentions

Abstract

The aim of the research was the studying the activity of mirror neurons in humans during the observation and reproduction of rhythm. As markers of mirror neuron activity, we used depression of the EEG mu-rhythm in the alpha and beta frequency ranges, cortical interactions at the frequency of this rhythm, as well as the results of fMRI brain mapping. The research involved volunteers men and women aged from 18 to 27 year (University students). Research has shown that monitoring the reproduction of a five-second rhythm is accompanied by activation of not only those areas of the cortex where the «motor» mirror neurons are located, but also other cortex areas, as well as the basal ganglia and cerebellum. This findings suggest that mirror neurons themselves do not provide an understanding of actions and intentions, although they are involved in these processes. It is assumed that these neurons provide interaction between the prefrontal, sensory and motor areas of the cortex, as well as places where motor programs are stored in the brain. The result of the interaction of these structures is an understanding of the actions and intentions of other people.