Mirror neurons and the art of acting

This theoretical paper explores the parallels between the mirror neuron system and the art of acting. It aims to establish a fruitful multidisciplinary encounter between actors, neuroscientists, and drama therapists which will allow them to compliment and deepen each other's exploration of being human, and to add to the current literature on drama therapy. Consistent and pervasive throughout all the acting literature is the message that the art of acting requires a profound understanding of human nature, and the astute observation and understanding of others as well as oneself. Modem neurological findings tell us that understanding of self and others relies to a large extent on the mirror neuron system. This study will look at the mirror neuron system as a means of clarifying and expanding our understanding of the art of acting. The mirror neuron system provides another level of abstraction at which to understand the art of acting, thus broadening our understanding of the art, and the processes which drive it. A deeper understanding of the processes of acting leads to a greater understanding of the role of drama in therapy, and of drama therapy in the larger community