This is absolutely incredible – I’m not much of a scientist, but if I understand this talk correctly, these mirror neurons mean that we really are intrinsically connected to everyone else and what we do to them, we do to ourselves as well. Most every religion talks about compassion and “do unto others”. Many spiritual practices cultivate compassion and kindness to others – many even encourage kindness and compassion to one’s enemies – and they are right because we only harm ourselves by harming others. On the flip side, when we help others, when we give them kindness and compassion, we are giving back to ourselves as well.

How cool is that?