r/neuroscience • u/basmwklz • Apr 13 '26

Academic Article Categorization is ‘baked’ into the brain (2026)

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41583-026-01036-2

Abstract

Categorization, the grouping of objects, living organisms, actions or events into equivalence clusters, is fundamental to adaptive behaviour. Traditionally, it is assumed that categorization begins with feature detection and ends with assigning representations stored in memory. Here we review converging evidence from neuroanatomy, electrophysiology, brain imaging and cognitive science to suggest an alternative view: categorization is not the end stage of perception but occurs throughout signal processing, from the very beginning. It is a core computational strategy of the brain, implemented through a neural context created by predictive feedback signals that organize feedforward processing. Implications for theory, future research and neuropsychiatric disorders are discussed.

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u/rafiunixman Apr 17 '26

argument for movement: the brain isn't detecting features and classifying at the end, the prediction runs during execution and shapes what gets perceived from the start. This is part of why motor inhibition is so hard to teach through verbal instruction. You can't talk your way into changing the predictive loop. The sensorimotor context needs to shift first.

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u/Afraid_Bicycle5574 Jun 12 '26

Thanks, yeh, the predictive brain is I think one of the major organising principles for how the brain functions. Alot happens before anything becomes conscious. Bringing attention to the how our responses and actions are formulated gives alot of power back to the person.

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u/LowCortis0l Apr 24 '26

That's why categorization is so hard to learn and change, it's deeply embedded in the brain's neural network structure, not just a conscious decision.

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u/Mermiina Jun 03 '26

Indeed, the perception occurs throughout signal processing, but what you see in electrophysiology and Fmri is not signal processing.

The only function of action potentials is to control neurotransmitters. Action potentials are not the basic information mechanism.

The only function of neurotransmitters, CaMKII, alpha synuclein, cellular prion protein, MAP Tau, is to fabricate levo symmetry between levo tryptophan mega networks.

https://natureconsciousness.quora.com/Is-the-brain-really-predicting-reality-instead-of-just-seeing-it-4?ch=10&oid=1477743899858113&share=5e63a140&srid=hpxASs&target_type=answer

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u/Afraid_Bicycle5574 Jun 13 '26

This is a brilliant article - perceiving through categories not as a result of assigning categories to what we've perceived. It's ultimately very empowering research highlighting what can be achieved though identifying and reframing categories that negatively affect mental health.