During this case study of Evolutionary Computation we have discussed various forms of selection. Natural selection is the mechanism that drives evolutionary processes in nature. Artificial selection is the mechanism used in agriculture and in animal husbandry to mold species. Genetic algorithms use various evaluation functions to select which individuals survive to the next generation.

How do these various forms of selection compare? Does the existence and success of the genetic algorithm and its applications provide additional support for natural selection and the theory of evolution? In a genetic algorithm, the programmer specifies the goal that guides the computation. Natural selection, in contrast, is said to lack any kind of goal. Describe this difference between the two mechanisms.

Write a 3-4 page (double spaced) essay that compares and contrasts the mechanisms involved in evolutionary computation --i.e., genetic algorithsm -- and in natural selection.

Your essay should have (i) a well-written introduction, which contains a clear statement of your thesis, (ii) a careful, logical development of ideas that support your thesis, (iii) a consideration of possible counter-arguments to your view, and (iv) a concise summary of your main point(s) at the end.