In the adaptive strategy theory, a diverse set of conceptual tools is applied to crime. The theory draws extensively upon concepts from the framework of evolutionary biology, such as strategies and adaptation, concepts which may account for the functional value of crime. The author uses conceptual models of genetic and cultural trait transmission to explain the acquisition of criminal behavior by learning. The chapter touches briefly on several possible adaptations, but focuses more on individual differences in criminal propensity and behavior. Although elegant evolutionary explanations have been proposed for specific crimes, such as homicide and rape, this chapter focuses more broadly on both common forms of theft and violent crimes. Criminals' lack of specialization in a single type of criminal activity encourages a theory of general criminal tendency. Figures, references