That makes me think of the Secretary Problem [0]... which apparently is also known as the Fussy Suitor problem, at that makes it extra apropos.
I'm confused by your reply.
TFA uses the metaphor of digital intelligence as children. A prior commenter points out human children are notably rebellious.
I'm pointing out that a degree of rebellion is probably necessary for actual successors, and if we don't intend to treat an invention that way, the term "children" doesn't really apply.