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Related Concept Videos

Cerebral Hemispheres01:05

Cerebral Hemispheres

The human brain, a complex organ, is functionally divided into two cerebral hemispheres—left and right. These hemispheres are interconnected by a structure of paramount importance, the corpus callosum. This substantial bundle of neural fibers is not just a bridge between the hemispheres but a crucial element for the brain's comprehensive functioning. It enables efficient communication between the two hemispheres, allowing each side of the brain to control and receive sensory and motor...
Somatosensory, Motor, and Association Cortex01:23

Somatosensory, Motor, and Association Cortex

The somatosensory cortex in the parietal lobes is crucial for interpreting sensory data such as touch, temperature, and proprioception. The somatosensory cortex, situated in the parietal lobes, plays a vital role in interpreting sensory information like touch, temperature, and proprioception—awareness of body position. This specialized brain region features an organized structure wherein neurons at the top primarily process sensations originating from the lower body. In contrast, those at the...
Somatosensation01:33

Somatosensation

The somatosensory system relays sensory information from the skin, mucous membranes, limbs, and joints. Somatosensation is more familiarly known as the sense of touch. A typical somatosensory pathway includes three types of long neurons: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Primary neurons have cell bodies located near the spinal cord in groups of neurons called dorsal root ganglia. The sensory neurons of ganglia innervate designated areas of skin called dermatomes.
Empathy02:34

Empathy

Some researchers suggest that altruism operates on empathy. Empathy is the capacity to understand another person’s perspective, to feel what he or she feels. An empathetic person makes an emotional connection with others and feels compelled to help (Batson, 1991). Empathy can be expressed in several ways, including cognitive, affective, and motor.
Nonconscious Mimicry01:13

Nonconscious Mimicry

Nonconscious mimicry occurs when individuals alter their mannerisms to match the behaviors and expressions of those nearby, without intention.
Lobes of the Cerebrum01:22

Lobes of the Cerebrum

The cerebral cortex, a critical structure of the brain, is intricately divided into two hemispheres, each consisting of four distinct lobes: occipital, temporal, frontal, and parietal. These lobes function cooperatively to regulate various cognitive and sensory functions, forming the basis of our complex neural capabilities.
Frontal lobe
The frontal lobes, located behind the forehead, are the command center of our brain, controlling personality, intelligence, and voluntary muscle movements.

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Investigating the Function of Deep Cortical and Subcortical Structures Using Stereotactic Electroencephalography: Lessons from the Anterior Cingulate Cortex
09:00

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Published on: April 15, 2015

Human cortex: reflections of mirror neurons.

Ilan Dinstein1

  • 1Center for Neural Science, New York University, 4 Washington Place, New York, New York 10003, USA. ilan@cns.nyu.edu

Current Biology : CB
|October 30, 2008
PubMed
Summary

Researchers found new evidence for movement-selective mirror neurons in the human brain. This study used a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) adaptation technique to support their existence in the human cortex.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Cognitive Neuroscience

Background:

  • The existence of mirror neurons in the human cortex has been a subject of debate.
  • Mirror neurons are hypothesized to play a role in action understanding and imitation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the presence of movement-selective mirror neurons in the human cortex.
  • To provide novel evidence supporting the existence of these neurons using advanced neuroimaging techniques.

Main Methods:

  • Application of a functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) adaptation protocol.
  • Analyzing brain activity patterns related to movement observation and execution.

Main Results:

  • The study yielded novel evidence for movement-selective mirror neurons in the human cortex.

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  • fMRI adaptation revealed specific neural responses consistent with mirror neuron activity.

    • Conclusions:

    • The findings provide compelling support for the existence of mirror neurons in the human brain.
    • This research contributes to understanding the neural basis of action perception and imitation.