I'm sure this is a horribly naive question to ask, but has anyone approached machine learning from an evolutionary angle. Effectively trying all viable methods in a competitive arena and allowing natural selection to dictate the direction of study? I am sure that you look at modeling from nature, et al., but what about iteration or mutation of model or coding built in? Is that organic nature added or removed? Does it matter? Is it required? is what I hear you asking. Our intelligence was emergent due to complexity and a perfect storm of resources...what elements would we need to create new life? or consciousness? More than coding and computers I'm sure.