Active Inference with a Self-Prior in the Mirror-Mark Task
Researchers have developed a computational model that demonstrates self-awareness in a simulated infant using active inference and a "self-prior." This self-prior, implemented with a Transformer, learns familiar sensory experiences and drives behavior when novel discrepancies arise, leading to the model successfully identifying and removing a sticker from its mirrored reflection in approximately 70% of trials. The study suggests the free energy principle can unify the investigation into the developmental origins of self-awareness, with code available on platforms like Hugging Face. AI
IMPACT Demonstrates a novel computational approach to self-awareness, potentially influencing future AI development in understanding consciousness.