I think mirror neurons, which provide the connection between the actions of others and our own movements, are the coolest thing...ever. They are essential for empathy, imitation, appreciation of facial expressions, and awareness of body language. V.S. Ramachandran, who has studied mirror neurons extensively, sums up their importance very nicely in this video...
Couldn't have said it better myself! The sudden existance of mirror neurons, and their following adaptations, were an essential part of mammalian evolution. They allowed us to learn from the techniques and emotions of others. As Ramachandran says, they allowed for a "Lamarckian" passing of knowledge, which then allowed for unique cultures. Human existence is completely dependent on these beautiful little neurons. What's most interesting is that by anaesthetizing the skin, we can remove the barrier between our own and others' actions (this is also common in those with mirror-touch synesthesia). We should really be devoting more attention to the role and mechanisms of these neurons, where's the research!? Give me more!
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