Relation algebras: Concept of points and representability

AbstractIn the axiomatization of relation algebras by Chin and Tarski certain elements are called right ideals. Aiming at applications in the relational theory of graphs and programs, we call such ideals ‘points’ and investigate an additional point axiom. First we prove a point insertion theorem. Then a representation theorem for such relation algebras is deduced by inherently relational methods, simplifying the proof of a similar result from Jónsson, Maddux and Tarski. Some historical remarks are inserted and an extended bibliography is added