An Analysis of Local Selection Algorithms in a Spatially Structured Evolutionary Algorithm

A critical part of the design of eeective EAs is to obtain a proper balance between exploration and exploitation. A key element of this balance is the selection algorithm used. Although we have for some time now understood the relative diierences between various selection methods for standard centralized EAs, our understanding of decentralized EAs has been less complete. In this paper we present analysis tools and results which provide considerable insight into the properties of various decentralized selection methods, including the selection pressures they induce. Understanding this permits a more informed choice of selection methods when designing and implementing spatially structured EAs.