This document discusses what is known about mirror neurons from studying monkey brains. It summarizes that: 1) Mirror neurons fire both when an individual performs an action and when they observe the same action in others, allowing for understanding of others' actions and intentions. 2) People with autism spectrum disorder may have abnormal mirror neuron function, hindering social skills like imitation, empathy, and understanding others' perspectives. 3) Mirror neurons may help explain both logical "theory of mind" perspectives and more intuitive "simulation theory" perspectives in understanding other minds.