# Predictive Coding Theories of Cortical Function

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2112.10048 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2112.10048/

## Key facts

- Cited by 6 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 19 Dec 2021.

## Built on by (most cited first, 6 of 6)

- [Sequential Memory with Temporal Predictive Coding](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2305.11982/) (2023)
- [Active Predictive Coding: A Unified Neural Framework for Learning Hierarchical World Models for Perception and Planning](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2210.13461/) (2022)
- [Predictive Coding Networks and Inference Learning: Tutorial and Survey](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2407.04117/) (2024)
- [Active Sensing with Predictive Coding and Uncertainty Minimization](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2307.00668/) (2023)
- [Learning World Models With Hierarchical Temporal Abstractions: A Probabilistic Perspective](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2404.16078/) (2024)
- [Lessons from Neuroscience for AI: How integrating Actions, Compositional Structure and Episodic Memory could enable Safe, Interpretable and Human-Like AI](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2512.22568/) (2025)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Predictive coding is a unifying framework for understanding perception, action and neocortical organization. In predictive coding, different areas of the neocortex implement a hierarchical generative model of the world that is learned from sensory inputs. Cortical circuits are hypothesized to perform Bayesian inference based on this generative model. Specifically, the Rao-Ballard hierarchical predictive coding model assumes that the top-down feedback connections from higher to lower order cortical areas convey predictions of lower-level activities. The bottom-up, feedforward connections in turn convey the errors between top-down predictions and actual activities. These errors are used to correct current estimates of the state of the world and generate new predictions. Through the objective of minimizing prediction errors, predictive coding provides a functional explanation for a wide range of neural responses and many aspects of brain organization.