‘Mindreading’ neurons simulate decisions of social partners
Neurons in the amygdala derive object values based on observations and use the values to simulate a social partner's decision making.... Read More...
Theory of Mind
Empathy and cooperation go hand in hand
A capacity for empathy is key in sustaining cooperation between a social group. Findings reveal empathy can evolve through a process of social contagion. ... Read More...
Research into aphasia reveals new interactions between language and thought
Problems with counterfactive interpretation in those with aphasia are associated with a reduction of propositional, lexical and syntactic cognition.... Read More...
Autism and Theory of Mind
Researchers have developed a new test that examines theory of mind in those on the autism spectrum. The work may shed light on how those with ASD have difficulty in understanding the point of view of others, and social behavioral deficits.... Read More...
Can Superman Trigger Heroic Helping in People?
Researchers report priming people with images of superheros increases their prosocial behaviors.... Read More...
Key Differences in Brains of Women and Men with Schizophrenia
Researchers have identified key differences between the way males and females with schizophrenia process the emotional states of others than those without the condition. The study reports those with schizophrenia use less complex brain regions than healthy controls to process other people's emotions.... Read More...
The ‘Real You’ is a Myth
Researchers say we constantly create false memories to help us achieve the identity we want.... Read More...
The Neuroscience of Envy
A new study provides insight into the neurobiological underpinnings of envy. Researchers have identified a part of the brain that specifically registers when another receives a reward. This affects the subjective value placed on personal resources and rewards.... Read More...
Are We Predisposed to Forgive?
A new study reports our cognitive flexibility in judging those who wrong us may shed light on both the human tendency to forgive, and explain why people hold on to those who continue to wrong them.... Read More...
The Art of Storytelling: Why We Relate to Characters
A new neuroimaging study sheds light on how we relate to characters in stories. Researchers report, no matter how a story is relayed, brain networks associated with theory of mind are activated when participants associate with the protagonist. The study concludes our brains relate best to characters, no matter how the narrative is expressed.... Read More...
Toddlers Prefer Winners, But Avoid Those Who Win by Force
By the age of 18 months, toddlers prefer individuals others yield to, researchers say. The study suggests this preference may be rooted deep in human nature and may have evolved because being close to those in power provides people with better access to resources, territory and mates.... Read More...
What’s Your First Memory? Did It Ever Really Happen?
What is the earliest memory you can recall? How sure are you the event really happened? Researchers say our earliest memories are more likely to be fictional.... Read More...