Ramifying feedback networks, cross-scale interactions, and emergent quasi individuals in Conway's game of Life

Artif Life. 2009 Summer;15(3):351-75. doi: 10.1162/artl.2009.Gotts.009.

Abstract

Small patterns of state 1 cells on an infinite, otherwise empty array of Conway's game of Life can produce sets of growing structures resembling in significant ways a population of spatially situated individuals in a nonuniform, highly structured environment. Ramifying feedback networks and cross-scale interactions play a central role in the emergence and subsequent dynamics of the quasi population. The implications are discussed: It is proposed that analogous networks and interactions may have been precursors to natural selection in the real world.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Biological Evolution
  • Cognition / physiology*
  • Computer Simulation
  • Feedback*
  • Game Theory*
  • Humans
  • Life
  • Models, Theoretical
  • Oscillometry
  • Population Dynamics
  • Selection, Genetic*