The paper introduces three postulates to describe black hole evolution in the context of quantum theory, semi-classical general relativity, and thermodynamics. These postulates are implemented using a "stretched horizon" model, which describes the black hole as a membrane that can absorb, thermalize, and re-emit information. The stretched horizon is a key concept in this framework, as it allows for a consistent description of black hole thermodynamics and information loss. The authors argue that the dissipative properties of the stretched horizon arise from the coarse-graining of microphysical degrees of freedom. They also advocate for the principle of black hole complementarity, which suggests that different observers can have different descriptions of the same physical process. The paper discusses the implications of these postulates in the context of two-dimensional dilaton gravity, where the stretched horizon can be defined and studied in detail. The authors show that the stretched horizon has statistical fluctuations that cause its area to undergo Brownian motion, and that the semi-classical theory helps in formulating a kinematic framework for a more complete quantum description. The paper also discusses the implications of the postulates for the storage and emission of information in Hawking radiation, and concludes that the stretched horizon provides a more physical and consistent description of black hole evolution than traditional approaches.The paper introduces three postulates to describe black hole evolution in the context of quantum theory, semi-classical general relativity, and thermodynamics. These postulates are implemented using a "stretched horizon" model, which describes the black hole as a membrane that can absorb, thermalize, and re-emit information. The stretched horizon is a key concept in this framework, as it allows for a consistent description of black hole thermodynamics and information loss. The authors argue that the dissipative properties of the stretched horizon arise from the coarse-graining of microphysical degrees of freedom. They also advocate for the principle of black hole complementarity, which suggests that different observers can have different descriptions of the same physical process. The paper discusses the implications of these postulates in the context of two-dimensional dilaton gravity, where the stretched horizon can be defined and studied in detail. The authors show that the stretched horizon has statistical fluctuations that cause its area to undergo Brownian motion, and that the semi-classical theory helps in formulating a kinematic framework for a more complete quantum description. The paper also discusses the implications of the postulates for the storage and emission of information in Hawking radiation, and concludes that the stretched horizon provides a more physical and consistent description of black hole evolution than traditional approaches.