Genetic Invariance: A New Paradigm for Genetic Algorithm Design
Joseph C. Culberson · 1992
This paper presents some experimental results and analyses of the gene invariant genetic algorithm(GIGA). Although a subclass of the class of genetic algorithms, this algorithm and its variations represent a unique approach with many interesting results. The primary distinguishing feature is that when a pair of offspring are created and chosen as worthy of membership in the population they replace their parents. With no mutation this has the effect of maintaining the original genetic material over time, although it is reorganized. In this paper no mutation is allowed. The only genetic operator used is crossover. Several crossover operators are experimented with and analyzed. The notion of a family is introduced and different selection methods are analyzed. Tests using simple functions, the De Jong five function test suite and several deceptive functions are reported. GIGA performs as well as traditional GAs, and sometimes better. The evidence indicates that this method makes more effec...