Yeah, in the end, geology will win. But if you want an alternative to double-sided tape, just to keep things from falling over if you bump them, try poster tack putty. I use 3M putty, which I got in the stationery aisle at a local pharmacy, but there are all kinds of brands available. A little piece under the base will provide a little security against a figure toppling due to a bump to your desk, or in the bookcase.
I like Brad's advice. You could move here, the East Coast. We're in the middle of a plate, so there are no earthquakes from plates sliding past each other. We do get an occasional shock as things settle, but that's very infrequent. Twice in my lifetime, that I know of (I'm 53) and only one of those was noticeable. It's a geologically dull place, which is perfect.
Prost!
Brad