Genetic Algorithms in Java

The genetic algorithm (GA) is basically a computer program which simulates evolution. Namely, a simulated population of chromosomes is randomly created and allowed to reproduce according to the laws of evolution with the hope that a very fit individual chromosome will eventually result. These chromosomes are actually (encrypted) candidate solutions to a problem, so when a good chromosome evolves, a good solution to a problem has evolved.

For a good introduction to genetic algorithms and how to implement them in Java, read our article published in Developers Network Journal.

You can download the accompanying code:
JDK 1.2 version
MS Visual J++ version