Abstract
The majority of artificial neural networks are static and lifeless and do not change themselves within a learning environment. In these models learning is seen as the process of obtaining the strengths of connections between neurons (i.e. weights). We refer to this as the 'synaptic dogma'. This is in marked contrast with biological networks which have time dependent morphology and in which practically all neural aspects can change or be shaped by mutual interactions and interactions with an external environment. Inspired by this and many aspects of neuroscience, we have designed a new kind of neural network. In this model, neurons are represented by seven evolved programs that model particular components and aspects of biological neurons (dendrites, soma, axons, synapses, electrical and developmental behaviour). Each network begins as a small randomly generated network of neurons,. When the seven programs are run, the neurons, dendrites, axons and synapses can increase or decrease in number and change in interaction with an external environment. Our aim is to show that it; is possible to evolve programs that allow a network to learn through experience (i.e. encode the ability to learn). We report on our continuing investigations in the context of learning how to play checkers.
| Original language | English |
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| Title of host publication | SIMULATED EVOLUTION AND LEARNING, PROCEEDINGS |
| Editors | X Li, M Kirley, M Zhang, D Green, V Ciesielski, H Abbass, Z Michalewicz, T Hendtlass, K Deb, KC Tan, J Branke, Y Shi |
| Place of Publication | BERLIN |
| Publisher | Springer |
| Pages | 11-20 |
| Number of pages | 10 |
| Volume | 5361 LNAI |
| ISBN (Print) | 978-3-540-89693-7 |
| Publication status | Published - 2008 |
| Event | 7th International Conference on Simulated Evolution and Learning - Melbourne Duration: 7 Dec 2008 → 10 Dec 2008 |
Conference
| Conference | 7th International Conference on Simulated Evolution and Learning |
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| City | Melbourne |
| Period | 7/12/08 → 10/12/08 |