A vital element of structural and continuum mechanics, stability theory has limitless applications in engineering. This text explores the principles and applications of stability analysis, offering students solid footing in the subject; it also functions as a convenient reference for engineers and scientists researching basic approaches and concepts. In addition to conventional aspects of elastic stability, the text emphasizes nonelastic stability. Topics include modern stability problems of fracture and damage, the thermodynamic principles of stability in irreversible systems, viscoelastic and viscoplastic buckling, and other key areas, plus numerous examples and 700 exercise problems.