The Development of Models of Computation with Advances in Technology and Natural Sciences
Gordana Dodig-Crnković · 2013
Abstract. Present account of models of computation highlights several topics of importance for the development of new understanding of computing, in the first place the development of natural computation (both as physical computation and in a sense of computational models inspired by natural systems) and the relationship between the model and physical implementation. The development beyond the classical Turing machine model proceeds in two directions – as a search for new mathematical structures beyond algorithms which are synonymous with the Turing machine as well as search for different fundamental elements of computational that are not equivalent to actions of human performing calculation: read, write, erase and move left or right in a sequential way. One of the developments builds on interactivity as fundamental feature of complex computational behaviour, which presupposes openness of computational systems. Natural computing widens the domain of computational systems not only to include quantum computing but also living systems, such as living cells, human brains and human societies. In modelling of concurrent information processing systems such as living organisms and their networks, the new developments in both understanding of those systems and in their computational modelling is needed – two processes that converge. 1 INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS COMPUTING