Signal vs. Noise LO2729

PeterVS1@aol.com
Mon, 11 Sep 1995 00:07:06 -0400

Replying to LO2713 --

Replying to Michael McMaster:

In talking about mutation, I do not mean to imply that it is the only or
even primary evolutionary mechanism.

Crossover (a genetic algorithm's version of sexual reproduction) is a key
mechanism. The fusion of genetic structures in which the length of the
genetic description increases is another mechanism. There are also other
mechanism, but I didn't want to get into them in detail on the LO list
(unless, of course, someone wants more info.)

I do think, however, that there is much for those of us interested in
learning organizations to apply from the area of biology/ecology.

For example, we're currently working on a project in which we are using
genetic algorithms to model the evolution of technologies and of
organizational structures. It is fascinating to watch these evolutionary
mechanisms at work, particularly when one suddenly sees an absolutely
amazing parallel between the evolution on an animal and a technology (like
an airplane or automobile or computer).

--
Regards,
Peter von Stackelberg
Applied Futures, Inc.