How does fly-by-wire change aircraft stability and control design?

Fly-by-wire (FBW) replaces mechanical control linkages with electronic signals, enabling: Relaxed static stability (computer provides artificial stability, reducing trim drag), Envelope protection (automatic limits on AOA, g, bank angle), Improved handling qualities through augmentation (stability augmentation, dampers), Carefree handling (pilot cannot exceed limits), and Advanced control modes (angle-of-attack command, flight path angle control). FBW allows unstable configurations like fighters with aft CG or novel designs like BWB. Redundancy (multiple computers, sensors, actuators) ensures safety. FBW aircraft like F-16, A320, and F-22 demonstrate benefits in performance and handling.