Function pointers are variables that store the address of a function in programming languages like C and C++. They allow you to call functions indirectly, enabling more flexible and dynamic code. For example, you can pass a function pointer as an argument to another function, allowing that function to execute different behaviors based on the pointer provided. Using function pointers can simplify code that requires callbacks or event handling. They are particularly useful in implementing data structures like linked lists or trees, where you may want to define specific operations that can change at runtime without altering the overall structure of the program.