# Some interesting observations on the free energy principle

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2002.04501 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2002.04501/

## Key facts

- Cited by 4 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 5 Feb 2020.

## Built on by (most cited first, 4 of 4)

- [The Free Energy Principle for Perception and Action: A Deep Learning Perspective](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2207.06415/) (2022)
- [Applications of the Free Energy Principle to Machine Learning and Neuroscience](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2107.00140/) (2021)
- [Interpreting Dynamical Systems as Bayesian Reasoners](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2112.13523/) (2021)
- [A Mathematical Walkthrough and Discussion of the Free Energy Principle](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2108.13343/) (2021)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Biehl et al (2020) present some interesting observations on an early formulation of the free energy principle in (Friston, 2013). We use these observations to scaffold a discussion of the technical arguments that underwrite the free energy principle. This discussion focuses on solenoidal coupling between various (subsets of) states in sparsely coupled systems that possess a Markov blanket - and the distinction between exact and approximate Bayesian inference, implied by the ensuing Bayesian mechanics.