In the absense of internal model, raw sensory inputs would remain meaningless.
Our brains are capable of generating the most realistic reality shows.We dream up alternative realities constantly; the brain projects hypotheses and interpretations on the outside worls. Only the most likely model makes it to consciousness.For example every image in our retina is ambiguous. The brain computes probabilities and the most likely model s accepted.Pure learning without prior constraints is impossible.
Learning always starts with a set of prior hypothesis, which are projected onto incoming data.The agent selects those models which are best adapted to the current environment.
At birth babies brains are already highly organized and contain a vast amount of prior knowledge (models). For example:
the world is made of things;things have properties;there are differences between animate and inanimate objects;