Predictive Processing Theory in Mind Studies: Cross Points with 4E Cognition and Cognitive Linguistics

This article examines the compatibility of Predictive Processing Theory (PPT), or the theory of anticipatory brain, with other contemporary scientific and philosophical frameworks that offer promising approaches to explaining consciousness and mind in general. It analyzes the connections between PPT and theories that include the body and the environment in structuring our concepts of reality, such as that of embodied and situated consciousness—4E cognition, as well as Cognitive Linguistics with its understanding of Conceptual Metaphor. At the same time, it investigates the metaphysical strategy of PPT, which fits into the current philosophical project of naturalization and its associated strong dependence on the natural sciences. It explores the contributions of key theorists in the field such as Carl Friston, Jacob Hohwy, Andy Clark, and Anil Seth.