Fuzzy sets from the ethics of social preferences

Alcantud, José Carlos R. (2013): Fuzzy sets from the ethics of social preferences. Published in: ESTYLF 2014 - Libro de actas (January 2014): pp. 469-474.

Abstract

We show that the problem of evaluating infinite sequences (or streams) of utilities by a unique utility (or social welfare function) can be stated in terms of fuzzy subsets of the set of infinite utility sequences. For each stream, its evaluation can be viewed as its degree of membership to the subset of ‘ethically acceptable’ streams within the set of possible sequences. Since the property ‘being ethically acceptable’ is not well defined and cannot be exactly measured, the fuzzy approach seems especially adequate.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Fuzzy subset, Social welfare function, Ethical.
• Subjects: C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C0 - General > C02 - Mathematical Methods; D - Microeconomics > D7 - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making; D - Microeconomics > D9 - Intertemporal Choice; Y - Miscellaneous Categories > Y8 - Related Disciplines > Y80 - Related Disciplines

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