1. A method for solving a set of optimization problems using one or more computers having an output device, the method comprising the steps of: (a) initializing a current region of solutions for the set of optimization problems; (b) creating a random sample of points within the current region; (c) identifying a subregion of the current region wherein (1) all the randomly sampled points within the subregion (i) are non-optimal solutions to the set of optimization problems, and (ii) have a common characteristic that is not an effect of the random sampling, and (2) all points within the subregion have the common characteristic; (d) removing the identified subregion from the current region; (e) determining whether the current region satisfies one or more convergence criteria; (f) repeating steps (b) through (e) whenever the convergence criteria are not satisfied; and (g) providing the optimal solutions within the current region to the output device.