Robots in love: Evolutionary psychology, artificial life, and cognitive robotics

Evolutionary psychology (EP) is an approach toward the study of human behavior that encompasses theories of evolutionary biology and cognitive psychology. EP, originally based upon Darwin's theory of natural selection, seeks to explain various psychological phenomena. Theories of cognition proposed in EP can be examined through artificial life (also known as A-Life) research that involves the study of organic systems and their adaptive behaviors. Romantic behavior is a key component of the human reproductive process and is therefore conducive to evolution. The simulation and analysis of such romantic behavior is possible through A-Life research. This article explores the biological origin of romantic behavior in addition to theories regarding the phenomenon known as “love.” Through the implementation of romantic characteristics on robots in a virtual society, we analyze the impact “love” has on their chance for survival. This work attempts to demonstrate the liquidity across various domains of cognitive informatics.