The computer simulation and inelastic neutron scattering studies of simple, monatomic liquids are reviewed, together with the theory appropriate for their interpretation. All three aspects of the dynamic properties of monatomic liquids began a new era of development around 1965, and the review is concerned chiefly with the experiments and theory reported in the intervening decade.Computer simulation (molecular dynamics) studies have featured strongly in the development of non-equilibrium statistical mechanics techniques for the calculation of correlation functions that enter the various measured susceptibilities. In fact molecular dynamics studies of systems interacting via continuous potentials have developed to the level of sophistication where they set a standard for neutron scattering experiments. The neutron experiments are difficult to perform with high accuracy, yet they offer a unique means of investigating the dynamics of simple liquids in the domain of wavevectors and frequencies larger than about 0.05 A-1 and 5 x 1011 s-1 respectively. The problems faced in analysing neutron data to the level required today are reviewed in detail, with particular attention to multiple scattering corrections. A review of neutron experiments on monatomic liquids shows that surprisingly few bear close scrutiny today. Theory has developed through the rigorous generalization of the Markovian theory of fluctuations set out by Landau and Lifshitz (1959). The development has taken the form of a generalized Langevin equation, proposed by Zwanzig (1961) and Mori (1965a), which provides a framework within which neutron and molecular dynamics data may be interpreted. The technique is reviewed, related to linear response theory, and used to summarize the recent theories.