1 The Problem -- 2 Dynamic Systems -- 3 The Organism as Machine -- 4 Stability -- 5 Adaptation as Stability -- 6 Parameters -- 7 The Ultrastable System -- 8 The Homeostat -- 9 Ultrastability in the Organism -- 10 The Recurrent Situation -- 11 The Fully-joined System -- 12 Temporary Independence -- 13 The System with Local Stabilities -- 14 Repetitive Stimuli and Habituation -- 15 Adaptation in Iterated and Serial Systems -- 16 Adaptation in the Multistable System -- 17 Ancillary Regulations -- 18 Amplifying Adaptation -- 19 The State-determined System -- 20 Stability -- 21 Parameters -- 22 The Effects of Constancy -- References