This advanced engineering text describes methods developed to deal with stochastic aspects of structural behavior, providing a framework for evaluating, comparing, and combining stochastic effects. Topics include second-moment reliability index methods; first-order reliability methods for computation of failure probabilities; and identification of the design parameters most affecting reliability. Additional subjects include a self-contained presentation of extreme-value theory and stochastic processes; aspects of stochastic response of structures; and stochastic models for several natural and manufactured loads. 1986 ed. 99 figures. 21 tables.