"Active Inference" by Karl Friston explores a groundbreaking approach to understanding how living organisms make predictions about their environment and take action to maximize their chances of survival. Friston introduces the concept of active inference as a unifying principle that underpins cognition, perception, and action.
Drawing from neuroscience, psychology, and machine learning, Friston offers a deep dive into the theoretical framework of active inference and its applications in understanding biological systems. He examines how the brain functions as a prediction machine, constantly updating its internal model of the world to minimize prediction error.
Through clear and accessible language, Friston delves into the implications of active inference for understanding everything from the origins of consciousness to psychiatric disorders. He challenges traditional views of the brain as a passive receiver of sensory input, proposing a dynamic and proactive role for the brain in shaping our perception of reality.
"Active Inference" is a thought-provoking exploration of the fundamental principles of cognition and behavior, providing a fresh perspective on the mechanisms that drive decision-making and adaptive behavior in both humans and other living organisms.