Question

Discuss the importance of mirror neurons in socialization. Then, discuss how mirror neurons may play a role in our development of empathy.

Answer 1

Mirror Neurons are the nerve cells which copy the actions of other people and make it appear as if the viewer is himself/herself doing the action. The Mirror Neurons assist in impersonating, which is a part of learning mechanism. They are also instrumental in preparing an observer in advance before the action takes place and also knowing the reasons of doing it. Mirror Neurons therefore, help in acquiring motor skills like harmonizing the movement of limbs and eyes and also in gaining communication skills.

Mirror Neurons are equally important in socialization. The Mirror Neurons help a person right from the childhood by enabling a small child to learn not only the basics like eating, walking, talking but also the social graces and behavior. A person is thus trained to act and behave in accordance with the social norms. Due to Mirror Neurons a person becomes aware of the emotions and feelings of others and is thus able to reciprocate and express himself/herself, which is an integral process of socialization.

Empathy is the capability of understanding and identifying the feelings of others. It is like putting oneself in other's shoes. To be able to fathom what other person is undergoing is the quality of empathy. Words are not always necessary in arousing empathy, facial expressions or actions are also enough to understand what the other person is going through. Scientific research states that development of empathy might be due to the Mirror Neurons. Although, it is not possible to perceive the exact emotions of others, but at least a person who has empathy for others can sense what the other person is feeling. As Mirror Neurons are triggered when one sees another doing some action or portraying some feelings, they are considered to be important in boosting up empathy in the observer. As a viewer himself/herself has the knowledge of pain or pleasure, when he/she finds another in the same situation, the memory of the feelings is invoked by the Mirror Neurons which play a major role in the development of empathy.