The Free Energy Principle: How Karl Friston’s Big Idea Can Change Your Mind (and Artificial Intelligence)

One could almost regard the free energy principle as an organizing principle for any living system that shows the characteristics of life. (Karl Friston)

Every so often, a scientific idea comes along that shakes up not just one field but a whole constellation of disciplines. Karl Friston’s Free Energy Principle is one of those ideas. It’s like the Swiss Army knife of concepts — it explains how your brain works, why humans act the way we do, and how to build smarter artificial intelligence. What’s more, it offers a roadmap for creating AI systems that not only process information but make decisions, learn, and adapt — much like us.

Let me explain.

The Free Energy Principle: A Quick Primer

Imagine you’re walking through a forest. It’s quiet, except for the rustling of leaves. Suddenly, you spot something on the ground. Your heart skips a beat. “Is that a snake? A threat?? Or just… a piece of wood?” Instantly, your brain springs into action, analyzing the shape, color, and texture, racing to decide whether to freeze, step back, or keep walking.