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Active Inference in String Diagrams : A Categorical Account of Predictive Processing and Free Energy
Tull, Sean; Kleiner, Johannes; Smithe, Toby St Clere (2025): Active Inference in String Diagrams : A Categorical Account of Predictive Processing and Free Energy, in: Bamberg: Otto-Friedrich-Universität, S. 1–41.
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Year of publication:
2025
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Source/Other editions:
Active Inference in String Diagrams : A Categorical Account of Predictive Processing and Free Energy, arXiv, S. 1–41
Year of first publication:
2023
Language:
English
Abstract:
We present a categorical formulation of the cognitive frameworks of Predictive Processing and Active Inference, expressed in terms of string diagrams interpreted in a monoidal category with copying and discarding. This includes diagrammatic accounts of generative models, Bayesian updating, perception, planning, active inference, and free energy. In particular we present a diagrammatic derivation of the formula for active inference via free energy minimisation, and establish a compositionality property for free energy, allowing free energy to be applied at all levels of an agent's generative model. Aside from aiming to provide a helpful graphical language for those familiar with active inference, we conversely hope that this article may provide a concise formulation and introduction to the framework.
Keywords:
String Diagrams
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Type:
Preprint
Activation date:
December 5, 2025
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https://fis.uni-bamberg.de/handle/uniba/112054