Advances in Fuzzy Sets — An Overview

Abstract

Using a comprehensive study of papers and books published in 1980, the author describes the increasing impact of fuzzy set theory. Many details, both theoretical and applications-oriented, are included. Initial suspicions and criticisms of fuzzy set theory have yielded to growing acknowledgment and acceptance as the theory matures. In 1980 more than 600 scientists produced about 700 papers on fuzzy sets at a high level of technical competence. A concise overview of progress in the theory and application of fuzzy sets is given. In a major development, previous doubts about the applicability of the theory have been answered by the large proportion (50%) of papers devoted to applications published in 1980. Researchers in a wide variety of disciplines now realize that the theory provides a convenient framework for modelling problems that have some inherent imprecision. The boundary between fuzzy set theory and probability theory is precisely delineated; fuzzy sets being based upon subjective valuation (sometimes improperly called fuzzy measure) while probability measure is by necessity objective. Fuzzy logic is a bridge between objects and their perception.