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Robots 'Evolve' Altruism

Posted by samzenpus on from the share-bots dept.

sciencehabit writes "Computer simulations of tiny robots with rudimentary nervous systems show that, over hundreds of generations, these virtual machines evolve altruistic behaviors. They begin to share small disks — a stand-in for food — with each other so that their comrades' traits are passed on to the next generation. Experts say the study sheds light on why various animals — from bees to humans — help each other out, even when it hurts their own chances to reproduce."

2 of 360 comments (clear)

  1. "They begin to share small disks...." by smoothnorman · · Score: 5, Funny

    "Fry: I’m not a robot like you. I don’t like having disks crammed into me unless they’re Oreos, and then only in the mouth."

  2. Re:Altruism != Government by Arlet · · Score: 1, Funny

    What about an anonymous donation never taken credit for or mentioned to anyone else?

    I've never seen those.