The contemplative exercise through the lenses of predictive processing: A promising approach.
Progress in Brain Research January 1, 2019 G. Pagnoni 59 citations
Predictive processing theory, which explains perception, action, attention, and learning as all following the principle of minimizing free energy, can unify the scattered findings in contemplative research. This opinion piece introduces the theory's basics, applies it to the Zen meditation practice of shikantaza as a paradigmatic example, and suggests experimental paradigms to test hypotheses derived from this approach, aiming to deepen understanding of meditation-related processes.