Document Type
Thesis
Publication Date
1997
Disciplines
Computer Sciences
Advisor
J. Andrew Holey
Abstract
What does it mean to be alive? Is it possible to create artificial life-forms that are truly alive? Can a computer program be alive? To answer these questions, I first explore the history of artificial life, beginning with John von Neumann, who designed algorithms possessing lifelike capabilities, and moving on to other famous attempts, such as Horton Conway's 'Game of Life', and Thomas Ray's remarkable 'Tierra' project.
Also included is a discussion on the merits of Object-Oriented programming for simulating, and ultimately synthesizing life on a computer. concurrency is defined, and its value for stimulating and synthesizing life is made clear.
Last, but far from least, I introduce my own attempts at artificial life, the prolific Veggies, the docile Herbies, the versatile Omnies, and the ravenous Carnies, as they compete for survival in their artificial environment.
Copyright Statement
Available by permission of the author. Reproduction or retransmission of this material in any form is prohibited without expressed written permission of the author.
Recommended Citation
Ziegler, Aaron, "Simulation of Living Processes Utilizing Concurrency and Object-Oriented Programming" (1997). Honors Theses, 1963-2015. 637.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/honors_theses/637