[aj7]

I reflexively downvote the game of life. I have never heard of a single useful application or analogy of “finite automata.” Yes, there are speculations about extremely small Planck lengths, by no new physics has panned out. Finally I am sad that one of the greatest computer scientists and polymaths, Ed Fredkin, got sucked into this. We all have weaknesses.

[jle]

GoL wasn't used here because of any value or analogy... it's used as an example of how a simple set of rules can generate complex behavior. GoL can display complex behavior, but it would be a stretch to to say that the rules governing it are complex. If you think GoL is too simplistic, you are agreeing with the original comment.

[ckocagil]

Surely you mean cellular automata, not finite automata.

[aj7]

Yes, you are right. My ignorance shows, but I am still hanging on to my opinion of cellular automata.

[aj7]

It’s remarkable how many silent downvotes you get when you tweak something that people think is cool. C’mon guys. Refute what I said.