ideasthesia

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Ryan Collison

I write about cool science and share it here.

Visualization of nested Markov blankets showing statistical boundaries between internal states and external reality

The Invisible Membrane Between You and Everything Else

The Invisible Membrane Between You and Everything Else Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. Where do you end and the world begin? It seems like an easy

Abstract digital artwork illustrating embodied cognition and the integration of action with understanding

You Don't Just Think Your Way Through Life—You Act Your Way to Understanding

You Don't Just Think Your Way Through Life—You Act Your Way to Understanding Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. There's a story

Abstract visualization of prediction error, information theory, and brain processing mechanisms

Surprise Isn't Just a Feeling—It's the Currency Your Brain Trades In

Surprise Isn't Just a Feeling—It's the Currency Your Brain Trades In Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. Open your eyes. The room

Abstract digital visualization representing the intersection of physics, cognition, and mental coherence

What Physics and Anxiety Have in Common: A New Theory of Mind

What Physics and Anxiety Have in Common: A New Theory of Mind Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. There's an equation that describes black holes,

Abstract digital artwork depicting neural networks and geometric patterns representing predictive brain processing and consciousness

The Neuroscientist Who Says You're Hallucinating Reality Right Now

The Neuroscientist Who Says You're Hallucinating Reality Right Now Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. Karl Friston doesn't look like a revolutionary. The

Abstract digital illustration depicting neural prediction and anticipatory response mechanisms in warm and cool tones

Why You Flinch Before the Punch Lands: The Science of Prediction

Why You Flinch Before the Punch Lands: The Science of Prediction Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. Your body knows things before you do. A boxer slips

Abstract geometric artwork with neural-inspired elements depicting predictive processing in warm color tones

Your Brain Isn't Watching the World—It's Guessing What Happens Next

Your Brain Isn't Watching the World—It's Guessing What Happens Next Formative Note This essay represents early thinking by Ryan Collison that contributed to the development of A Theory of Meaning (AToM). The canonical statement of AToM is defined here. You've been lied to