Study Shows Co‑evolution of Self‑Replication and Function in Digital Primordial Soup

Researchers model a digital environment they call a “primordial soup” of simple programs. The study investigates how self‑replication and functional behavior evolve together. Simulations show that replicators can acquire useful tasks while maintaining copying ability. Results suggest a co‑evolutionary dynamic where function enhances replication success. The work connects concepts from artificial life to early evolutionary theory. Findings are detailed in a pre‑print posted on the arXiv repository. The authors discuss implications for understanding the origins of complexity. Future research directions include extending the model to more realistic scenarios.