Mean-field theory for global binding systematics

We review some possible improvements of mean-field theory for application t o nuclear-binding systematics. Up to now, microscopic theory has been less successful than models starting from the liquid drop in accurately describi ng the global binding systematics. We believe that there are good prospects for developing a better global theory, using modern forms of energy-densit y functionals and treating correlation energies systematically by the RPA. (C) 2001 MAIK "Nauka/Interperiodica".