Swarm Intelligence

From fireflies that synchronize, to ant colonies that create miles of trail networks, to the mesmerizing behavior of fish schools and bird flocks, swarms are everywhere! Even humans exhibit swarm behaviors! What are the rules by which this amazing collective behavior emerges? Why do swarms evolve? In this freshman seminar we will explore the emergence of self-organization and swarm intelligence across animal groups, through readings, discussions, in class games, and simple programs.