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Future Paths of Phenomenology

1st OPHEN Summer Meeting

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205272

The problem of other minds is not a problem

mirror neurons and intersubjectivity

Marco Iacoboni

pp. 121-133

Abstract

This chapter discusses evidence from single unit recordings in monkeys and brain imaging in humans suggesting that neural mechanisms of mirroring allow the sharing of mental states between individuals. Such sharing solves the old philosophical problem of other minds. Correlations between mirroring and empathy also suggest that relatively simple neurobiological mechanisms of mirroring maybe at the basis of a secular morality which is built upon biological predispositions we have inherited from our evolutionary ancestors.

Publication details

Published in:

Pineda Jaime A. (2009) Mirror neuron systems: the role of mirroring processes in social cognition. New York, Humana Press.

Pages: 121-133

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-59745-479-7_6

Full citation:

Iacoboni Marco (2009) „The problem of other minds is not a problem: mirror neurons and intersubjectivity“, In: J. Pineda (ed.), Mirror neuron systems, New York, Humana Press, 121–133.