From The New Atlantis:

Debating Digital Organisms

Some biologists believe they can learn fundamental truths about life by creating computerized models that supposedly “compete for resources” and even “evolve.” In the last issue of The New Atlantis, contributing editor Steve Talbott argued that these “digital organisms” aren’t all they’re cracked up to be. Now, a leading proponent has his say, and Talbott replies.

Fall 2007--
Ghosts in the Evolutionary Machinery

Steve Talbott on digital organisms and disembodied science