Abstract
Comprehension of actions is a core social skill. Here we provide a critical review of the dominant mirror neuron theory of action comprehension. Recent data demonstrate that parts of the mirror system respond to actions performed by nonhuman shapes and are insensitive to actor identity. Regions beyond the mirror system are also important for action comprehension. We suggest this data is not compatible with a strong mirror system hypothesis, and we outline alternative theories.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Social perception |
Subtitle of host publication | detection and interpretation of animacy, agency, and intention |
Editors | M. D. Rutherford, Valerie A. Kuhlmeier |
Place of Publication | Cambridge, MA |
Publisher | MIT Press |
Chapter | 10 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9781461943280 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780262019279 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2013 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- mirror neurons
- action understanding
- intentionality