Local versus global stability in dynamical systems with consecutive Hopf bifurcations

Quantifying the stability of an equilibrium is central in the theory of dynamical systems as well as in engineering and control. A comprehensive picture must include the response to both small and large perturbations, leading to the concepts of local (linear) and global stability. Here, we show how systems displaying Hopf bifurcations show contrarian results for these two aspects of stability: Global stability is large close to the point where the system loses its stability altogether. We demonstrate this effect for an elementary model system, an anharmonic oscillator, and a realistic model of power system dynamics with delayed control. Detailed investigations of the bifurcation explain the seeming paradox in terms of the location of the attractors relative to the equilibrium.