Final answer:
Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that enable mimicry and have been linked to the development of language in early hominins.
Step-by-step explanation:
Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that enable mimicry and have been linked to the development of language in early hominins. These neurons, found near Broca's area in the human brain, allow individuals to understand and imitate the actions of others.
Research suggests that the ability to evaluate and interpret others' actions and reproduce them in similar contexts may have paved the way for the emergence of language. Mirror neurons have also been associated with other functions such as contagious yawning and the treatment of phantom limb pain through mirror therapy.