1. A method for modifying candidate solutions of an optimization problem, the method comprising: selecting at least one candidate solution from a first plurality of candidate solutions, wherein the first plurality of candidate solutions has converged on a suboptimal solution during a computer simulation that tests fitness of the first plurality of candidate solutions for the optimization problem; storing a copy of the at least one candidate solution; performing a cataclysm on the first plurality of candidate solutions; generating a second plurality of candidate solutions; and after one or more additional computer simulations that test the fitness of the second plurality of candidate solutions for the optimization problem, integrating the copy of the at least one candidate solution into the second plurality of candidate solutions.