Exploring Wicked Problems: What They Are and Why They Are Important

Former Secretary of State George Shultz once drew a distinction between "problems you can solve and problems you can only work at."

These two types of problems have names: They are tame or wicked.

Many people believe that their problems are "wicked," yet few seem to understand what should be done with them. Wicked problems are messy, confusing, unstable, ill-structured, and ambiguous.

This book explores the timely issue of wicked problems - what they are and why they are important. The authors open the door to a greater understanding of wicked problems and an appreciation for their complexity, sharing insights and recommendations on how to tackle them to make positive and productive changes in relationships, at home, and at work.

Making one's way successfully through the mess of obstacles and impediments that wicked problems present puts maximum pressure on our capabilities and stretches our tolerance for confusion, conflict, controversy, and chaos.

Get guidance on grappling with the wicked problems in your life by increasing your knowledge about what they are and why they are so important to keep working at - even if they can't be completely resolved.

Joseph Bentley, PhD, is emeritus professor of management and organizational behavior at the University of Utah. Michael Toth, PhD, is emeritus professor of sociology at Portland State University. For over thirty years, they have been using the concepts of the social sciences to understand the problems people face in their relationships, at work, and in their lives. They have also enjoyed a deep and rare friendship.