Name: The neurons that shaped civilization
Uploaded: 2010-01-04T07:30:00Z
Duration: 7 min 26 s
Description: Neuroscientist Vilayanur Ramachandran outlines the fascinating functions of mirror neurons. Only recently discovered, these neurons allow us to learn complex social behaviors, some of which formed the foundations of human civilization as we know it.

Neuroscientist Vilayanur Ramachandran outlines the fascinating functions of mirror neurons. Only recently discovered, these neurons allow us to learn complex social behaviors, some of which formed the foundations of human civilization as we know it.

Vilayanur Ramachandran: The neurons that shaped civilization

The neurons that shaped civilization

Mirror neurons bridge understanding and empathy, firing not just for actions performed but observed, foundational to imitation and culture.

Mirror neurons not only shape personal actions but also empower cultural evolution by enabling rapid skill transmission.

Discovery of touch-sensitive mirror neurons reveals empathy's neural basis, enhancing our understanding of human connections.