First Steps Towards an Institution of Algebra Replacement Systems

Algebra replacement systems are introduced as formal models of state dependent and state transforming systems. The first part of an institution of algebra replacement systems is developed, that is, a model theoretic and logical framework that can be used to describe and reason about such systems. The usual operational understanding of a replacement system as a labeled transition system is then considered as one particular model in the model category. Under appropriate conditions such a constructed replacement system is initial.