On biologically inspired computation

What is biologically inspired computation and why is it interesting? More importantly, why is it worth time/money/resources to investigate in this area of research? These are hard questions; firstly due to the poor use of standardised vocabulary in computer science it is difficult to concisely define most sub-fields of study let alone specific tools in those subfields. Secondly questioning the validity of any field of study is a dubious exercise; surely the answer 'for the good of human knowledge' suffices. These are questions that I have recently been pondering both for my own satisfaction and for a second reason that was beginning to trouble me namely the apparent lack of pride in the field by a few of my colleagues and peers. I reasoned that perhaps the cause was a little of the 'forest for the trees' syndrome and so I have taken it upon myself to attempt to elucidate the defendable strengths of the field as well as what I have discovered to be the poorly defined and yet commonly accepted problems or faults in the field. This document has three aims: (1) To provide a canonical definition of biologically inspired computation as a field of study and provide a basic framework for integrating work in the field suitable for an intelligent layperson and researcher alike; (2) To provide a clear understanding of the scope of this field for researchers who are new to this area and also broad arguments (or perhaps a first line of defence) to justify work in the field; (3) To rekindle some passion of some current researchers in the field to support the validity of the field of study that may have been forgotten or discarded due to the pressures of overabundant scepticism. It is hoped that this document -- at the very least -- will generate discussion debate or even thought into some of the issues mentioned. I think it is a useful exercise to stop occasionally and take stock of 'where we fit' in the scheme of things and somewhat objectively evaluate that position. Ideally this work could become a living document or transformed into an online Wiki and contributed to by peers and perhaps used as a 'first port-of-call' by new researchers, old researchers lacking enthusiasm; and sceptics alike [Introduction].