Intersubjectivity: From the neurobiological to the ethical and pedagogical level

Cristina Buonaugurio

The discovery of mirror neurons gave stimulus to the study of intersubjectivity in a neurobiological key and is allowing us to understand the brain mechanisms that enable us to realize the others because of embodied simulation. However, it is also rising doubts about man’s ability to use these mechanisms to promote the others’ good, lacking a suitable moral education. The article aims to reflect on the ethical and pedagogical implications of this issue and stresses the importance of recovering the moral education, so that mirror neurons may become the neural substrate needful to the creation of a relational space in which to experience mutual love.

Keywords
Mirror neurons, Embodied simulation,Shared Manifold, Moral education, Ethic of care.

Back