 Life and its audacity for becoming like him or her… It is not only a natural trait, but a scientific fact that humans consciously or unconsciously try to imitate those who appear to be in a better position, or give a sense of superiority by their natural moves. Who doesn’t want the best job, car, house, boat, clothes, or style? Probably not many. As a philosopher, I encounter this challenging reality more problematic than beneficial. While there are good traits that humans should imitate, the ones with less flourishing future are the dominant ones. Why is this happening? Look at this video by Lupe Fiasco: ACT I “Doesn’t know the difference between right and wrong.” ACT II “Understand more the Internet than their parents” ACT III “Fruit of the confusion” Children are the most vulnerable to the effects of mirror neurons. They learn by imitating actions, phrases, and sentences. However, this doesn’t mean they cannot change as adults. In fact, as they grow, their character is mainly influence by friends and, in the modern era, Social media. In the past, cultures and societies were the main influencers in people’s character. This has been changing significantly in the past years. And I am afraid is not necessary changing for the best. Take a Plato for example, he explained hundreds of years ago how mankind easily imitates the actions of others. But he explained in sense that is not being beneficial to the people itself, as their thinking is limited and commensurate to living in a cave. Yes, a cave!!! Why would he say that? Why imitating others could be wrong? Well, it is not wrong necessarily. As I said, there are good and bad traits that humans could imitate. Yet, the ones that are less beneficial are the ones that are often imitated. So, Neurons, work in the context of what? I may have a good explanation for this, but as a scientist is hard make a claim without evidence. I don’t own my lab yet, so it is hard for me to do experiments. But let me challenge you… :) Have you ever imitated other people? How strong are your beliefs? Have you ever hold hands with a love one? Why? Now, while we know that such imitated behavior is result of mirror neurons, the fact that imitation occurs limits creativity and free thinking. Imitating others often chains the thinking. It is more complex than just desiring to have the same BMW as your neighbor. If you want it, go for it! But think about the good reasons you want it for! And not just because you felt in your gut the need of buying a BMW as well. I am not against imitating. Go for it! But imitate the good things. And question yourself why you are imitating those things. This, will enhance your brain in the growth with stronger neuro-connections.
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