Which type of neurons are activated both when performing an action and when observing someone else perform that action?

The type of neurons that are activated both when performing an action and when observing someone else perform that action are known as mirror neurons. These specialized neurons play a crucial role in understanding the actions and intentions of others, as well as in mimicking behaviors. Mirror neurons facilitate empathy and social learning by allowing an individual to internally simulate another person's actions, which fosters a deeper understanding of their behavior and intentions. This is significant in various contexts, including language acquisition, emotional connections, and the development of social skills. Their unique ability to fire during both action execution and observation makes them a vital component of the brain's mirror system, which is essential for learning through imitation and social interaction.