Traditionally, books on earthquake engineering have treated only one or more aspects of the subject or have been compendiums with contributions from several authors. Basic Elements of Earthquake Engineering is the first comprehensive examination of earthquake engineering, lending balance and coherence to a subject too often approached in pieces. Based on sound theoretical concepts and practical design considerations, the book covers the analysis and design of structures, systems, and components that can resist earthquake ground motions. Presenting a rational progression of topics, the book discusses seismic hazard assessment, definition of design ground motion, response analysis including foundation interaction, inelastic response, ductile design and response, and qualification of supported systems.