Abstract:

We describe a computationally reflective object-oriented architecture suitable for incorporating open-ended innovation and emergent entities into simulations. This allows emergent properties to be reified into objects. This requires modifying the model, and the metamodel, by incorporating novel classes and metaclasses dynamically. The classes and metaclasses are modified by including them in the model through reflection. We argue that such computationally reflective introduction of novelty is necessary for true open-ended simulations.