Miller@YALE@sri-unix (10/20/82)
From: David Miller <Miller at YALE>
...Just install check sums and error correcting codes
and you will eliminate the chance of mutation and the
machines running amuck...
I've got news for you, DNA has more backup and error correction mechanisms
than have ever been put into any robot, and look what happens to a strand
of DNA after a couple of million years, even under a very protective
atmosphere. Imagine what would happen to any memory system you care
to think about after a similar interval in deep space. The likelihood
of mutation seems pretty good to me, and for some interesting speculation
on what might happen consult your local SF lover.
-Dave
-------jnw (10/21/82)
DNA may have a lot of backup and error correction, but it is programed to
mutate. Any DNA which wasn't able to mutate went into the bit bucket
long ago. If you want a machine to mutate you have to programe it to.
DNA is programed so that changes have a significant probability of making
sense.
John White