The (lambda)over-right-arrow-mean squared dispersion associated with a fuzzy random variable

In this paper we introduce a parameterized real-valued measure of the mean dispersion of a fuzzy random variable with respect to an arbitrary fuzzy nu mber. This measure extends the second moment of a classical random variable , and is based on a parameterized distance between fuzzy numbers. Propertie s of the measure presented are analyzed, and the extension of the variance of a classical random variable, which particularizes the mean squared dispe rsion, is also examined. Some examples illustrating the computation and pos sible applications of the measure are included. Finally, a brief discussion about the interest of using a parameterized distance, and about some futur e directions of this study, is developed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. Al l rights reserved.