Ranking fuzzy numbers with integral value

Ranking fuzzy numbers is important in decision making. Since very often the alternatives are evaluated by fuzzy numbers in a vague environment, a comparison between these fuzzy numbers is indeed a comparison between alternatives. This paper proposes a method of ranking fuzzy numbers with integral value. The method, which is independent of the type of membership functions used and the normality of the functions, can rank more than two fuzzy numbers simultaneously. It is relatively simple in computation, especially in ranking triangular and trapezoidal fuzzy numbers. Further, an index of optimism is used to reflect the decision maker's optimistic attitude. Discussion on comparative advantages is included.