Axiomatic considerations in multi-objective location theory

Contrary to most of the rich literature existing on location theory the paper emphasizes the discussion of adequate objective functions for multi-objective approaches. In particular, a number of theorems are presented characterizing single objective reductions of multi-objective problems. In doing so we show that objective functions employed in location theory contain both implicit and explicit value judgements and we hope to provide the reader with a better understanding of the economics and value judgements behind these objectives. Another benefit from the approach is the ability to derive desirable objective functions in operations research in general and in location theory in particular from desirable properties.