Interesting article, but I have to disagree.

I think what you should really focus on is the ability to simulate (4life, lol) reality that you mentioned, patterns are just a part of it.

If our brain would be only "a machine that recognizes patterns, that recognizes things and reacts to them" then any deviation from the pattern would kill/harm us. It's the ability to simulate that helps living beings to survive and prosper.

Also, tadpole is actually using patterns when fleeing from predators, otherwise what is the difference between fleeing and walking you described. I believe you disproved yourself :D

I quite enjoyed the read, thanks :)