Fuzzy measures of quality of life in Germany: a multidimensional and comparative approach

Quality of life must be measured within a multidimensional framework preferably including objective and subjective indicators of quality of life that add to the information obtained through economic indicators. This paper proposes for the first time, the fuzzy set approach to quality of life measurement. The application uses the 2012 data collected for Germany by Eurofound during the third wave of the European Quality of Life Survey. The fuzzy approach, developed in the early 1990s, proves to be highly consistent and efficient in this empirical application when compared to distribution analyses. In addition, it is also statistically robust. Both the theoretical background and the application of the approach are described. The fuzzy set provides relevant added value for both data analysts and data users as it presents results easily and concisely, facilitates comparison and cross-references between dimensions, and allows for the consolidation of monetary and non-monetary aspects of life quality.