An Algorithmic Approach to Collective Behavior

Bernard Chazelle
2014 Journal of statistical physics  
The emergence of collective structure from the decentralized interaction of autonomous agents remains, with notable exceptions, a mystery. While powerful tools from dynamics and statistical mechanics have been brought to bear, sometimes with great success, an algorithmic perspective has been lacking. Viewing collective behavior through the lens of natural algorithms offers potential benefits. This article examines the merits and challenges of an algorithmic approach to the emergence of collective order.
doi:10.1007/s10955-014-1140-6 fatcat:gaysmo7xffaabnfbns4xatb4aa