Evolutionary Computation

by Kenneth A. De Jong

Evolutionary computation, the use of evolutionary systems as computational processes for solving complex problems, is a tool used by computer scientists and engineers who want to harness the power of evolution to build useful new artifacts, by biologists interested in developing and testing better models of natural evolutionary systems, and by artificial life scientists for designing and implementing new artificial evolutionary worlds. In this clear and comprehensive introduction to the field, Kenneth De Jong presents an integrated view of the state of the art in evolutionary computation. Although other books have described such particular areas of the field as genetic algorithms, genetic programming, evolution strategies, and evolutionary programming, Evolutionary Computation is noteworthy for considering these systems as specific instances of a more general class of evolutionary algorithms. This useful overview of a fragmented field is suitable for classroom use or as a reference for computer scientists and engineers.

Genres: Computer Science, Evolution

Hardcover

First published February 3, 2006

Reviews

[William Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking to start playing with and building your own evolutionary algorithms, this is a fantastic place to start. De Jong, breaks down clearly the steps for how EA works, different approaches, selection methods, and much more. Having dived into this after I had built just my first EA it was a great way to look back and see where I had gone wrong, and to see better approaches for future work.

Options and different approaches are laid out clearly and explained in great detail and very well. This should be required reading for anyone in comp sci that touches on these topics.

[Eloy Ruiz donayre · Rating 4 out of 5]

A broad review of the main aspects and applications of evolutionary computation.

[Michiel · Rating 2 out of 5]

Somewhat superficial and maybe a bit outdated.