Discrete element models and real life duals

Some interesting results are obtained using a class of models defined as discrete element. One of the best examples of this class is the Game of Life whose history is traced to cellular automata. Through duals, the results link these discrete element models with standard mathematical models, the specific one involved here is a logistic equation. Some implications are drawn from M.R. Lauer\´s (1993) blending of two discrete element models: the Game of Life and the Prisoner\´s Dilemma. The totally cooperative aspects of "births" and "deaths" in the standard Game of Life are contrasted with the competitive features of the algorithms of strategy in the Prisoner\´s Dilemma. Of particular significance are the optimal population values for varying levels of "selfish" births and the counter-intuitive answers to a number of significant questions that are raised in a series of simulation experiments.