This preface introduces a selected reprint volume on fuzzy models for pattern recognition, edited by James C. Bezdek and Sankar K. Pal. The volume aims to provide a unified presentation of fuzzy models in pattern recognition, reflecting the recent commercial success of Japanese products based on fuzzy technology. It begins with Zadeh's original 1965 article on fuzzy sets and covers the evolution of fuzzy algorithms in feature analysis, clustering, classifier design, neural network learning, image processing, and computer vision. Each chapter includes an introduction, comments on the selected papers, and a bibliography. The collection is intended for researchers and engineers in academia, industry, and government working on systems that process sensor data for classification, prediction, and control. It can also serve as a supplementary text for courses in fuzzy sets, classifier design, cluster analysis, feature analysis, image processing, and computational models for uncertain reasoning. The volume was commissioned by the IEEE Neural Networks Council (NNC) and benefited from the contributions of numerous reviewers and the staff at IEEE PRESS.This preface introduces a selected reprint volume on fuzzy models for pattern recognition, edited by James C. Bezdek and Sankar K. Pal. The volume aims to provide a unified presentation of fuzzy models in pattern recognition, reflecting the recent commercial success of Japanese products based on fuzzy technology. It begins with Zadeh's original 1965 article on fuzzy sets and covers the evolution of fuzzy algorithms in feature analysis, clustering, classifier design, neural network learning, image processing, and computer vision. Each chapter includes an introduction, comments on the selected papers, and a bibliography. The collection is intended for researchers and engineers in academia, industry, and government working on systems that process sensor data for classification, prediction, and control. It can also serve as a supplementary text for courses in fuzzy sets, classifier design, cluster analysis, feature analysis, image processing, and computational models for uncertain reasoning. The volume was commissioned by the IEEE Neural Networks Council (NNC) and benefited from the contributions of numerous reviewers and the staff at IEEE PRESS.