Conflict resolution and a framework for collaborative interactive evolution

Abstract Interactive evolutionary computation (IEC) has proven useful in a variety of applications by combining the subjective evaluation of a user with the massive parallel search power of the genetic algorithm (GA). Here, we articulate a framework for an extension of IEC into collaborative interactive evolution, in which multiple users guide the evolutionary process. In doing so, we introduce the ability for users to combine their efforts for the purpose of evolving effective solutions to problems. This necessarily gives rise to the possibility of conflict between users. We draw on the salient features of the GA to resolve these conflicts and lay the foundation for this new paradigm to be used as a tool for conflict resolution in complex group-wise human-computer interaction tasks

Picbreeder: A Case Study in Collaborative Evolutionary Exploration of Design Space

For domains in which fitness is subjective or difficult to express formally, interactive evolutionary computation (IEC) is a natural choice. It is possible that a collaborative process combining feedback from multiple users can improve the quality and quantity of generated artifacts. Picbreeder, a large-scale online experiment in collaborative interactive evolution (CIE), explores this potential. Picbreeder is an online community in which users can evolve and share images, and most importantly, continue evolving others\u27 images. Through this process of branching from other images, and through continually increasing image complexity made possible by the underlying neuroevolution of augmenting topologies (NEAT) algorithm, evolved images proliferate unlike in any other current IEC system. This paper discusses not only the strengths of the Picbreeder approach, but its challenges and shortcomings as well, in the hope that lessons learned will inform the design of future CIE systems

Conflict Resolution and a Framework for Collaborative Interactive Evolution

Interactive evolutionary computation (IEC) has proven useful in a variety of applications by combining the subjective evaluation of a user with the massive parallel search power of the genetic algorithm (GA). Here, we articulate a framework for an extension of IEC into collaborative interactive evolution, in which multiple users guide the evolutionary process. In doing so, we introduce the ability for users to combine their efforts for the purpose of evolving effective solutions to problems. This necessarily gives rise to the possibility of conflict between users. We draw on the salient features of the GA to resolve these conflicts and lay the foundation for this new paradigm to be used as a tool for conflict resolution in complex group-wise human-computer interaction tasks