• Media type: E-Article
  • Title: Imitation and the effort of learning
  • Contributor: Williams, Justin H. G.
  • imprint: Cambridge University Press (CUP), 2008
  • Published in: Behavioral and Brain Sciences
  • Language: English
  • DOI: 10.1017/s0140525x07003329
  • ISSN: 0140-525X; 1469-1825
  • Keywords: Behavioral Neuroscience ; Physiology ; Neuropsychology and Physiological Psychology
  • Origination:
  • Footnote:
  • Description: <jats:title>Abstract</jats:title><jats:p>Central to Hurley's argument is the position that imitation is “automatic” and requires inhibition. The evidence for this is poor. Imitation is intentional, involves active comparison between self and other, and involves new learning to improve self-other likeness. Abnormal imitation behaviour may result from impaired learning rather than disinhibition. Mentalizing may be similarly effortful and dependent upon learning about others.</jats:p>