Paper Summary: The Koha Code - A Biological Theory of Memory 19 implied HN points • 29 Dec 23 🔬 Science Neuroscience Biology Memory Learning Cognition The Koha model proposes that dendritic spines are computational units that scan for specific temporal codes in the brain. Excitatory and inhibitory neurons can form neural circuits that use lateral inhibition to suppress other neurons. Dendritic spines change shape to amplify or dampen signals, encoding temporal patterns and competing to become the 'winning neuron'.
Kolmogorov Complexity Lays Bare the Soul 19 implied HN points • 30 Nov 23 📖 Philosophy Identity Existence Soul Meaning Metaphysics Kolmogorov complexity measures how efficiently data can be compressed. Fractals may look complex but can have low Kolmogorov complexity due to simple rules. A hypothetical Kolmogorov string could contain all essence of a person's being.
How can an automaton have free will? 0 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23 📖 Philosophy Free will Determinism Decision-making Uncertainty Free will is about the subjective experience of decision-making, not just determinism. Being able to freely choose without coercion is key to considering oneself the cause of an outcome. Making decisions involves reasoning under uncertainty and balancing possible outcomes, which is the essence of free will.