Questions for Tuesday October 24


1. Why would random K=N networks behave chaotically?

2. Describe the structure of K=1 networks. Why would they tend to have
simple behavior?

3. What are the two kinds of stability discussed in the paper? Why are they
necessary for living systems?

4. Do you agree that "the edge of chaos" is optimal for living systems?
Explain your opinion.

5. Why might antichaos be essential for evolution?

6. How does the mismatch game support Kauffman's theories of antichaos and
adaptation?

7. List all of the 2-input noncanalyzing Boolean functions.

8. Can you list any deficiencies of Kauffman's model of genomic regulating networks?

9. The paper applies only to synchronous Boolean networks. How would you modify the
definitions of "freezing" (Def. 1.2.) and "affects" (Def. 1.4.) so that they
pertain to asynchronous networks?  Using these modified definitions, do you think
that Theorems 4. and 6. apply to asynchronous Boolean networks?