Introduction to genetic algorithms

Abstract

The world is full of optimization problems. Nature constantly optimizes each of her configurations. Each ecosystem fits together to use the symbiotic nature of each element. Species have evolved to have the characteristics that are most likely to lead to survival. The wind blows in directions that best alleviate any imbalances in forces. The planets orbit in ways that best fulfill the laws of motion. In understanding the environment, we often have to discern the optimization problem to fully understand its solution. Evolution is one of the most interesting optimization problems. Why have humans evolved to have two hands, two eyes, two legs, one head, and a large brain while other species have not? Does that make humanity the pinnacle of the optimization problem? Why do guppies evolve to have different characteristics in dissimilar environments? Can the process of evolution be codified to understand these issues better? © 2009 Springer Netherlands.