A universal ethology challenge to the free energy principle: species of inference and good regulators

The free energy principle (FEP) portends to provide a unifying for the biological and cognitive sciences. It states that system maintain non-equilibrium steady-state with its environment it must minimise (information-theoretic) energy. Under FEP, is equivalent engaging in approximate Bayesian inference. According therefore, inference at explanatory base of biology cognition. In this paper, we discuss specific challenge inferential formulation adaptive self-organisation. We call universal ethology challenge: FEP cannot unify cognition, life itself (or self-organisation) does not require routines select solutions environmental pressures (as mandated by FEP). show possible overcome providing cautious exploratory treatment under FEP. conclude there are good reasons thinking can cognition notion inference, even if further challenges be addressed properly draw such conclusion.