Classical Results and Modern Approaches to Nonconservative Stability

Stability of nonconservative systems is nontrivial already on the linear level, especially, if the system depends on multiple parameters. We present an overview of results and methods of stability theory that are specific for nonconservative applications. Special attention is given to the topics of flutter and divergence, reversible- and Hamiltonian-Hopf bifurcation, Krein signature, modes and waves of positive and negative energy, dissipation-induced instabilities, destabilization paradox, influence of structure of forces on stability and stability optimization