The guided or accelerated process of evolutionary change driven by human-designed selection pressures, rather than natural ones. This is done through direct genetic engineering (CRISPR), simulated evolution via genetic algorithms in software, or by creating controlled environments where only organisms with desired traits can survive and reproduce. The goal is to "breed" solutions—new materials, optimized proteins, or even novel lifeforms—at a pace millions of times faster than blind nature.
Artificial Evolution Example: Using a genetic algorithm to evolve the most efficient shape for a turbine blade by simulating thousands of generations of mutation and selection in a computer is Artificial Evolution. In a lab, forcing generations of bacteria to survive on toxic waste, thereby evolving strains that can clean it up, is directing evolution with a human goal.
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal February 3, 2026
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