Bayesian inference and the world mind
arXiv Preprint Archive October 27, 2012 John O. Campbell
The paper argues that Bayesian inference and the philosophical tradition of logic and semiotics initiated by Charles Sanders Peirce, George Spencer-Brown, and Louis Kauffman can inform each other. Semiotics gains mathematical mechanisms, while Bayesian inference is shown to be closely related to the act of distinction, the fundamental basis of logic in Spencer-Brown's work. This hybridization suggests a definition for knowledge within Bayesian inference, a concept previously lacking. Darwinian processes are physical implementations of Bayesian inference, and within universal Darwinism, their conjunction describes a world mind. This context provides scientific support and addresses charges of mysticism leveled at the semiotic approach.