A continuity of Markov blanket interpretations under the Free Energy Principle

TL;DR

This paper discusses the interpretation of Markov blankets within the Free Energy Principle, emphasizing a continuum between instrumental and ontological views and exploring implications for understanding models.

Contribution

It introduces the idea of a continuum between instrumental and ontological interpretations of Markov blankets, challenging the strict distinction and highlighting its significance.

Findings

Recognizes a continuum between instrumental and ontological interpretations.

Highlights the importance of this continuum for understanding models.

Challenges the strict separation proposed in prior work.

Abstract

Bruineberg and colleagues helpfully distinguish between instrumental and ontological interpretations of Markov blankets, exposing the dangers of using the former to make claims about the latter. However, proposing a sharp distinction neglects the value of recognising a continuum spanning from instrumental to ontological. This value extends to the related distinction between being and having a model.