Self-organization between local and non-local interaction in 2-D cellular automata

Self-organized structures in nature are able to maintain order amidst irregularity. To investigate possible mechanisms we construct a simple 2-D cellular automaton model in which local interactions build up a non-local state. This non-local state perpetually varies the rules of local interaction. Our simulation studies show that this model is capable of modelling a system that maintains structural heterogeneity, yet also develops toward self-organization. This result suggests that interaction between different hierarchies in an evolutionary system is an essential requirement for self-organization