Egbert M. D. & Di Paolo E. A. (2009) Integrating autopoiesis and behavior: An exploration in computational chemo-ethology. Adaptive Behavior 17(5): 387–401. https://cepa.info/325
Egbert M. D. & Di Paolo E. A.
(
2009)
Integrating autopoiesis and behavior: An exploration in computational chemo-ethology.
Adaptive Behavior 17(5): 387–401.
Fulltext at https://cepa.info/325
It has been argued that the difference between an autonomous entity and an agent is in the ability of the latter to perform behaviors supplemental to processes of self-maintenance (autopoiesis). Theories have been proposed concerning how such behaviors might relate to autopoiesis, but so far, computational models of autopoiesis have paid little attention to these relations. In this article we present a new model designed to explore the relationship between mechanisms of autopoiesis and behavior. We report on three clarifications of the theory provided by the model: (a) mechanisms of behavior can be related to mechanisms of autopoiesis while remaining operationally distinct, (b) the organization of an operationally closed system can change over time while remaining operationally closed, and (c) behavior modulation based upon autopoietic efficacy has limitations that can be avoided through the use of a partially decoupled behavioral system. Finally, we discuss questions that have surfaced during examination of the model.
McMullin B. & Varela F. J. (1997) Rediscovering computational autopoiesis. In: Husbands P. & Harvey I. (eds.) Fourth European Conference on Artificial Life. MIT Press/Bradford Books, Cambridge MA: 38–48. https://cepa.info/2079
McMullin B. & Varela F. J.
(
1997)
Rediscovering computational autopoiesis.
In: Husbands P. & Harvey I. (eds.) Fourth European Conference on Artificial Life. MIT Press/Bradford Books, Cambridge MA: 38–48.
Fulltext at https://cepa.info/2079
This paper summarizes some initial empirical results from a new computer model (artificial chemistry) which exhibits spontaneous emergence and persistence of autopoietic organization. the model is based on a system originally presented by Varela, Maturana, and Uribe. In carrying out this reimplementation it was found that an additional interaction (chain-based bond inhibition), not documented in the original description by Varela et al., is critical to the realization of the autopoietic phenomena. This required interaction was rediscovered only following careful examination of (unpublished) source code for an early version of the original model. The purpose of the paper is thus two-fold: firstly, to identify and discuss this previously undocumented, but essential, interaction; and secondly, to argue, on the basis of this particular case, for the importance of exploiting the emerging technologies which support publication of completely detailed software models (in addition, of course, to conventional publication of summary experimental results).