Conceptual and Computational Models of Mirror Neurons

抄録

Current conceptual models of mirror neurons attribute high level functions such as imitation, action understanding and (precursor of) language to mirror neurons. However the number of studies that take a computational viewpoint to realize these proposals is limited. In this article we first present current opinions (`conceptual models') on the mirror neuron function. Then we review the computational models available and explain the strengths and weakness of these models in addressing the mirror neurons. Our meta-analysis underlines the gap between conceptual and computational models and points out the required research effort at both sides to reduce this gap.