The Jordan Harbinger Show cover image

The Jordan Harbinger Show

887: Andy Clark | How Our Minds Predict and Shape Reality

Aug 29, 2023
01:18:01
Snipd AI
University of Sussex cognitive philosophy professor Andy Clark discusses how our brains construct reality based on available data, the problems that arise when our senses relay an inaccurate picture of reality, phantom vibration syndrome as a brain's predictor, how our brains fill in gaps when sensory information is missing, the effectiveness of placebos even when we know they are placebos, and more.
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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Our brain operates as a prediction machine, constructing our perception of reality based on available data and prior information.
  • The brain's predictions shape our perception of colors, as demonstrated by the viral dress illusion.

Deep dives

The Brain as a Prediction Machine

The podcast episode explores the concept of the brain as a prediction machine. The brain takes in sensory data and constructs our reality based on predictions. It constantly makes guesses about what is happening in order to keep us functioning successfully in the world. Our brain's predictions can sometimes lead to errors or quirks in perception. Understanding the role of prediction in brain processing can shed light on various phenomena, such as auditory and visual illusions, the placebo effect, and even hallucinations.

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