The brain is a prediction machine from "summary" of The Brain by David Eagleman
The brain is a marvel of prediction. It doesn't just react to the world, but it actively generates models of the world in order to anticipate what will happen next. This predictive ability is not limited to our thoughts and perceptions; it also extends to our actions. When we reach for a cup of coffee, for example, our brain is constantly making predictions about the location of the cup, the force required to lift it, and the sensation of its warmth against our hands. These predictions are not always perfect, of course. Sometimes, our expectations don't match up with reality, leading to surprises and errors. But even these mistakes are valuable learning opportunities for the brain. By comparing its predictions with actual outcomes, the brain refines its models of the world, improving its ability to anticipate and respond to future events. This predictive process is not confined to the present moment; it also operates across time. Our memories, for instance, are essentially predictions about the past. When we recall an event, our brain reconstructs a version of it based on stored information, filling in gaps and smoothing over inconsistencies. This process is not foolproof, as memories can be distorted or forgotten over time. Yet, even these errors serve a purpose, helping the brain to update its models of the past and refine its predictions for the future. In this way, the brain is constantly engaged in a dance of prediction and revision, using its stored knowledge and past experiences to anticipate what will happen next. This predictive machinery is not a passive observer of the world; it is an active participant, shaping our perceptions, actions, and memories in ways that are both subtle and profound. By understanding the brain as a prediction machine, we gain insight into the fundamental processes that underlie our thoughts, behaviors, and sense of reality.
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