Solving the symbol regression problem

Let's see how to use genetic programming to solve the symbol regression problem. It is important to understand that genetic programming is not the same as genetic algorithms. Genetic programming is a type of evolutionary algorithm in which the solutions occur in the form of computer programs. Basically, the individuals in each generation would be computer programs and their fitness level corresponds to their ability to solve problems. These programs are modified, at each iteration, using a genetic algorithm. In essence, genetic programming is the application of a genetic algorithm.

Coming to the symbol regression problem, we have a polynomial expression that needs to be approximated here. It's a classic regression problem where we try to estimate the underlying function. In this example, we will use the expression: f(x) = 2x^3 - 3x^2 + 4x - 1

The code discussed here is a variant of the symbol regression problem given in the DEAP library. Create a new...