Evolution of Collective AI Beyond Individual Optimization

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has witnessed significant advances with the emergence of powerful neural network (NN) models. Examples include large language models [1] and image generation models such as DALL-E [2], Imagen [3], and Parti [4]. Each has achieved previously unseen capabilities as powerful individuals through recent technical breakthroughs. On the other hand, the biological evolutionary strategy focuses more on the direction of collective intelligence compared to individual ability, especially for species living in populations [5]. Unlike individual intelligence, which deals with challenges independently, collective intelligence necessitates the ability to process information, operate in a decentralized manner, and adaptively integrate information based on context. This distinction is evident in social insects, such as ants and bees, where collective behavior with role differentiation emerges not from highly complex individuals but through simple interactions among members.