If the brain isn't a computer, what is it?

This article summarizes Robert Epstein’s critique of the “computer metaphor” for the brain. I agree that the current breed of electronic devices we call “computers” is a poor analogy for the brain, which seems to work in entirely different ways. But i think he goes too far when he says that the brain does not process information.

For one thing, we CAN compute. We invented it. Computers only do it on our behalf, because we designed them to do so.

I also finds the supposed alternative vision—an organ that changes based on experience—a bit short on specifics. I can think of other organs that change based on experience: muscles for instance grow and shrink depending on physical activity and food intake.

So the question arises: if brains aren’t computers, what are they?

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The empty brain

Your brain does not process information, retrieve knowledge or store memories. In short: your brain is not a computer

by Robert Epstein

https://aeon.co/essays/your-brain-does-not-process-information-and-it-is-not-a-computer