 Optimal modularity: A demonstration of the evolutionary advantage of modular architecturesKoen Frenken and Stefan Mendritzki No 11-03, Working Papers from Eindhoven Center for Innovation Studies Abstract: Modularity is an important concept in evolutionary theorizing but lack of a consistent definition renders study difficult. Using the generalised NK-model of fitness landscapes, we differentiate modularity from decomposability. Modular and decomposable systems are both composed of subsystems but in the former these subsystems are connected via interface standards while in the latter subsystems are completely isolated. We derive the optimal level of modularity, which minimises the time required to globally optimise a system, both for the case of two-layered systems and for the general case of multi-layered hierarchical systems containing modules within modules. This derivation supports the hypothesis of modularity as a mechanism to increase the speed of evolution. Our formal definition clarifies the concept of modularity and provides a framework and an analytical baseline for further research. Keywords: Modularity; Decomposability; Near-decomposability; Complexity; NK-model; Search; hierarchy (search for similar items in EconPapers) There are no downloads for this item, see the EconPapers FAQ for hints about obtaining it. Related works: Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ein:tuecis:1103 Access Statistics for this paper More papers in Working Papers from Eindhoven Center for Innovation Studies Contact information at EDIRC. |
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