The following text is from a cognitive science article.
Predictive processing frameworks model the brain as a prediction machine, constantly generating expectations about incoming sensory signals. Perception involves comparing predictions with actual input; discrepancies (prediction errors) drive learning and updating. This unifying framework promises to integrate perception, action, and attention under a single computational principle. Critics question whether the framework is falsifiable or merely redescribes known phenomena in new vocabulary.
What is the primary purpose of the text?
To explain a cognitive framework and note both its promise and a concern
To provide brain scanning images
To argue that the brain cannot make predictions
To compare cognitive theories across different species
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. The text explains predictive processing, notes its unifying promise, and introduces a concern (falsifiability, redescription).
- Evidence: The text explains the framework: "Predictive processing frameworks model the brain as a prediction machine." It notes promise: "unifying framework promises to integrate perception, action, and attention." It introduces concern: "Critics question whether the framework is falsifiable or merely redescribes."
- Reasoning: The passage introduces a scientific theory, praises its ambition, and then raises a methodological worry.
- Conclusion: The purpose is to explain framework and note promise and concern.
💡 Strategy: Summarize: Brain predicts (Framework). All in one! (Promise). But is it testable? (Concern).
Choice B is incorrect because images aren't provided. Choice C is incorrect because prediction is the framework's core claim. Choice D is incorrect because species aren't compared.