The generalized density matrix (GDM) method is used to calculate
microscopically the parameters of the collective Hamiltonian. Higher order
anharmonicities are obtained consistently with the lowest order results, the
mean field [Hartree-Fock-Bogoliubov (HFB) equation] and the harmonic potential
[quasiparticle random phase approximation (QRPA)]. The method is applied to
soft spherical nuclei, where the anharmonicities are essential for restoring
the stability of the system, as the harmonic potential becomes small or
negative. The approach is tested in three models of increasing complexity: the
Lipkin model, model with factorizable forces, and the quadrupole plus pairing
model.Comment: submitted to Physical Review C on 08 May, 201