Bayesian Instinct ∗

Introduction to Bayesian networks

The primary objective of this book is to discuss the power and limits of Bayesian networks for the purpose of constructing real-world models. The idea of the authors is not to extensively and formally expound on the formalism of mathematical models, and then explain that these models have been – or may be – applied in various fields; the point of view is, conversely, to explain why and how some...

Development evolving: the origins and meanings of instinct.

How do migratory birds, herding dogs, and navigating sea turtles do the amazing things that they do? For hundreds of years, scientists and philosophers have struggled over possible explanations. In time, one word came to dominate the discussion: instinct. It became the catch-all explanation for those adaptive and complex abilities that do not obviously result from learning or experience. Today,...

Sapience, Consciousness, and the Knowledge Instinct (prolegomena to a Physical Theory)

The chapter describes a mathematical theory of sapience and consciousness: higher mental abilities including abilities for concepts, emotions, instincts, understanding, imagination, intuition, beautiful, and sublime. The knowledge instinct drives our understanding of the world. Aesthetic emotions, our needs for beautiful and sublime are related to the knowledge instinct. I briefly discuss neuro...

The Faith Instinct: How Religion Evolved and Why It Endures

Instinct and Learning Synergy in Simulated Foraging Using a Neural Network

Instinct and experience are shown to form a potent combination to achieve effective foraging in a simulated environment. A neural network capable of evolving instinct-related neurons and learning from experience is used as the brain of a simple foraging creature that must find food and water in a 3D block world. Instincts provide basic tactics for unsupervised exploration of the world, allowing...