Fuzzy Sets and Systems I

To manage complex, human-centric systems, Lotfi A. Zadeh introduced fuzzy sets, thereby moving away from rigid systems. Instead of chasing unattainable precision, his approach accommodates the real world’s natural imprecision and partial truths.

This lecture series uses design-science research to work with complexity rather than against it. Stepping outside conventional thinking, we frame fuzzy sets as a tool that cuts across multiple disciplines. Ultimately, the lecture provides a holistic overview of fuzzy systems as a core component of modern, human-centric solutions.

Details

Code 53105
63105
Type Course
ECTS 5
Site Fribourg
Track(s) T5 – Information Systems and Decision Support
T6 – Data Science
Semester A2026

Teaching

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this lecture series, you will have:

  • Learned about fuzzy set and systems design and engineering, applied to either business, government, or society,
  • Become familiar with design-science research methods within a group to implement a fuzzy artefact, and
  • Modeled and presented, as well as designed, engineered, and evaluated the artefact.

Students can join every semester, even though the series contains part I and II.

Lecturer(s) Edy Portmann
Language english
Course Page

The course page in ILIAS can be found at https://ilias.unibe.ch/go/crs/3684709.

Schedules and Rooms

Period Weekly
Schedule Friday, 14:15 - 17:00
Location UniFR, PER21
Room C130

Evaluation

Evaluation type written exam

Additional information

Comment

First Lecture
The first lecture will take place on Friday, 18.09.2026 at 14:15 in UniFR, PER21, room C130.

Reference
For this lecture series we use the book of Portmann, E.: Fuzzy Management Methods: Modeling with Fuzzy Logic. Springer. Forthcoming.