Mirror systems
A)are found only in humans.
B)are relevant to tool use, but not to language.
C)result from mutations in the FOXP2 gene.
D)might form the basis for the development of language.

Question

Mirror systems 
A)are found only in humans. 
B)are relevant to tool use, but not to language. 
C)result from mutations in the FOXP2 gene. 
D)might form the basis for the development of language.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mirror systems are neural networks that activate both when an individual performs a certain action and when they observe someone else performing the same action. This ability of mirroring the actions of others might have played a role in the evolution of language by allowing individuals to understand and imitate gestures and sounds made by others, thus forming a basis for communication. This indicates that mirror systems might have aided in the development of language. Thus, option D is the correct choice. Option A is incorrect because mirror systems are found in other primates as well. Option B is incorrect because mirror systems are relevant not only to tool use but also to language. Option C is incorrect because although mutations in the FOXP2 gene have been associated with language impairments, they are not specifically related to mirror systems.

Mirror Systems