Understanding through perception, not just auditory reception: Tatyana Chernygovskaya's perspective
In a thought-provoking exploration of the human mind, neuro-linguist and cognitive scientist Tatiana Chernigovskaya sheds light on the crucial role of mirror neurons in our ability to understand and appreciate art.
Mirror neurons, a vital neural mechanism within our brains, allow us to internally simulate and empathize with the actions, emotions, and intentions behind artistic expressions. This neural mirroring enables viewers to experience art not just visually, but emotionally and cognitively, fostering a deep, embodied understanding of creative works.
Chernigovskaya underscores the importance of culture in human development. She argues that culture provides the shared symbols, languages, and practices that shape cognitive processes from early childhood. Through cultural transmission, individuals internalize collective knowledge and meaning, which profoundly influence brain development and the capacity for abstract thought, communication, and creativity.
In essence, culture is not a luxury, but a way of being human. Without it, there is a risk of losing one's humanity and resorting to violence, as Chernigovskaya warns, citing historical events where this has occurred.
The reader plays a pivotal role in the life of art. Art only lives when there is someone who can recognize and understand it. Critics, both professional and amateur, can help others "turn on" their understanding and show how to read, look, and listen to art.
Moreover, Chernigovskaya introduces the term "comernton inclusion" to describe the connection to other layers of reality. This concept underscores the idea that our brains need to be trained, challenged with tasks, languages, images, and associations, much like how Albert Einstein lived in music, not just aesthetically but as a way of thinking, a gateway to another mental realm.
In conclusion, Chernigovskaya's insights provide a compelling argument for the intertwined roles of mirror neurons, culture, and the reader in understanding and appreciating art. By recognizing and valuing these connections, we can deepen our understanding of art and enrich our own cognitive and emotional experiences.
- Neuro-linguist and cognitive scientist Tatiana Chernigovskaya emphasizes the relevance of art books, education, and self-development, as they offer valuable opportunities for individuals to learn about and engage with art, fostering personal growth, reflection, and deeper understanding of mirror neurons and culture.
- Emerging from the concept of "comernton inclusion," it is suggested that our mental health and wellness could be positively influenced by immersing ourselves in diverse forms of entertainment, such as music and literature, as they can stimulate brain development, promote mental flexibility, and contribute to better cognition.
- In the realm of health-and-wellness, it becomes evident that engaging with art can contribute to enhanced emotional and cognitive experiences, since mirror neurons allow viewers to internalize and empathize with artistic expressions, enriching their mental, emotional, and creative capacities.
- As neuro-linguistic theories suggest, the training of our brains should go beyond cognitive training and include a holistic approach that incorporates diverse aspects of life, such as culture, personal growth, entertainment, and education-and-self-development, in order to achieve overall well-being and open ourselves up to various mental realms and possibilities.
