Preference intensity and cardinality (Q456949)

The paper is devoted to the problem of utility representation of a preference intensity initially represented via a weak order on an infinite set of alternatives. The main predecessors of this investigation are the books by \textit{D. H. Krantz} et al. [Foundations of measurement. Vol. I: Additive and polynomial representations. New York-London: Academic Press (1971; Zbl 0232.02040)] and by \textit{S. French} [Decision theory: an introduction to the mathematics of rationality. Chichester: Ellis Horwood Limited; New York: Halsted Press (1988; Zbl 0667.90004)]. Unlike these and others predecessors, the author introduces a definition of preference intensity without attempting to build a cardinal utility for the corresponding binary relation. Technically it is follows from dispensing with the Archimedean assumption. Instead he defines a uniform space associated to the preference intensity. The topological properties of the uniformity are investigated. In particular, it is proved that if a preference intensity is utility representable (if the Archimedean assumption holds), this uniformity is semimetrizable.