This paper outlines a theory of automata suitable for studying adaptation, drawing from biology, theoretical genetics, and automata theory. The theory is divided into four main parts: the study of adaptation via generation procedures and populations, the definition of a continuum of generation procedures, the realization of these procedures in iterative circuit computers, and the process of adaptation. The theory includes both "complete" models, such as programmed parallel computers, and "incomplete" models, such as natural systems. The paper discusses the importance of universal generation procedures and the role of templates in modifying these procedures. It also explores the concept of differential selection and the sampling bias in the adaptation process. The environment is treated as a population of problems, and the adaptive system's ability to solve these problems is evaluated through activation release. The paper concludes with a discussion on the nature of theorems in this theory.This paper outlines a theory of automata suitable for studying adaptation, drawing from biology, theoretical genetics, and automata theory. The theory is divided into four main parts: the study of adaptation via generation procedures and populations, the definition of a continuum of generation procedures, the realization of these procedures in iterative circuit computers, and the process of adaptation. The theory includes both "complete" models, such as programmed parallel computers, and "incomplete" models, such as natural systems. The paper discusses the importance of universal generation procedures and the role of templates in modifying these procedures. It also explores the concept of differential selection and the sampling bias in the adaptation process. The environment is treated as a population of problems, and the adaptive system's ability to solve these problems is evaluated through activation release. The paper concludes with a discussion on the nature of theorems in this theory.