Experience Machines

Originating from the University of Sussex, Professor Andy Clark's work has long been focused on the intricate relationships between the mind, body, and environment. With a career spanning several decades, Clark has established himself as a leading figure in the field of cognitive philosophy, with research interests that encompass artificial intelligence, embodied and extended cognition, robotics, and computational neuroscience. His books, including Surfing Uncertainty, Mindware, and Supersizing the Mind, have contributed significantly to the discourse on human perception and reality.

Clark's latest book, The Experience Machine, presents a comprehensive exploration of predictive processing, the notion that our brains are essentially prediction engines, whose expectations play a crucial role in shaping our perception of reality. Through examples such as phantom phone vibrations, chronic pain, and social bias, Clark illustrates the complexities of this concept and offers practical suggestions for reshaping our predictions. His work has been influenced by the research of Karl Friston, and he has been principal investigator on several European Research Council grants, including the current XScape project.

The talk on Experience Machines, scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 4 November 2026, at the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts in Brighton, will draw directly on Clark's work in this area. The event will run until Thursday, 18 February 2027, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to engage with Clark's ideas and explore the concept of experience machines.

The Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts in Brighton will host this event, which will undoubtedly appeal to those interested in cognitive philosophy, artificial intelligence, and the intricacies of human perception. Tickets are with the button beside the article. With his extensive background in cognitive philosophy and his current research projects, including the XScape grant, Clark is well-positioned to provide insightful commentary on the role of predictive processing in shaping our understanding of reality.

As a professor of cognitive philosophy, Clark's work has been characterized by its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on insights from philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, and computer science. His ability to connect high-level concepts to everyday examples has made his work accessible to a broad audience, and his talk on Experience Machines is likely to be no exception. By exploring the concept of experience machines and the role of predictive processing in shaping our perception of reality, Clark's talk promises to offer a thought-provoking and engaging experience for all who attend.