Digital Genesis: Computers, Evolution and Artificial Life

The application of evolution in the digital realm, with the goal of creating artificial intelligence and artificial life, has a history as long as that of the digital com-puter itself. We illustrate the intertwined history of these ideas, starting with the early theoretical work of John von Neumann and the pioneering experimental work of Nils Aall Barricelli. We argue that evolution-ary thinking and artificial life will continue to play an integral role in the future development of the digital world