"Blindsight" by Peter Watts and the Free-Energy Principle

Today we'll be exploring the incredible science fiction novel "Blindsight" by Peter Watts, and how it delves into the intriguing concept of the Free Energy Principle.

The Free Energy Principle is a neuroscientific theory proposed by Karl Friston, which suggests that living organisms seek to minimize the difference between their expectations and the sensory input they receive from the environment.

In other words, our brains work to minimize free energy in order to efficiently process information and interact with the world around us.

"Blindsight" explores the concept of consciousness and the Free Energy Principle through the eyes of Siri Keeton, a man with a condition called blindsight, which allows him to perceive his surroundings without any conscious awareness.
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Throughout the novel, Siri and his team encounter an alien intelligence that operates on the principles of the Free Energy Principle. The aliens have developed a unique form of consciousness that is vastly different from human consciousness and is based on the idea of minimizing free energy.

"Blindsight" raises fascinating questions about the nature of consciousness, the limits of human perception and understanding, and the possibility of non-human intelligence. It also highlights the ethical implications of interacting with a sentient species that operates on a fundamentally different set of principles.

As you read "Blindsight", you'll be taken on an incredible journey through the depths of science fiction and the complexities of neuroscience. The book provides a thought-provoking and deeply engaging read for fans of science fiction and those interested in exploring the mysteries of consciousness and the human brain.

So, if you're looking for a book that will challenge your thinking and take you on an exciting adventure, then "Blindsight" by Peter Watts is definitely worth a read.

Thank you for joining us today, and we'll see you in the next video.

Stay Human!