What is THE problem? LO26898

From: Ren'e Post (renepost@wxs.nl)
Date: 06/24/01


Replying to LO26794 --

Hi Y'all

What is THE problem? Half the solution!

Based on the constraint-composition theory.

The constraint-composition theory asserts that a problem comprises all the
constraints on its solution, along with the demand that the solution be
found. On this formulation the constraints are actually constitutive of
the problem itself; they characterize the problem and give it structure.
The explicit demand that the solution be found arises from the goals of
the research program, the pursuit of which leads, it is to be hoped, to
filling an outstanding gap in the problem's structure. Also, by including
all the constraints in the problem's articulation, the problem enables the
researcher to direct inquiry effectively by pointing the way to its own
solution. In a very real sense, stating the problem is half the solution!

Further reading
Thomas Nickles, "What Is a Problem That We Might Solve It?" Synthese 47,
no.1 (1981): 85-118.
Brian Haig, "Scientific Problems and The Conduct of Research,"
Educational Philosophy and Theory 19, no. 2 (1987): 22-32.

Greetings,

Ren'e Post
ZANSHINconsultants

-- 

"Ren'e Post" <renepost@wxs.nl>

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