we look at Chapter 3 Solving Problems. In this chapter, Chaffee focuses on arriving at a logical solution; therefore, the emphasis is to a greater extent on examining the alternatives and choosing the most reasonable one. The importance of acquiring problem-solving abilities and skills is introduced in this section. Rather than seeing problems as negative occurrences, Chaffee argues that the challenge of facing problems as opportunities is to “call forth our courage and wisdom.” Finding satisfactory solutions to challenging problems becomes an opportunity for intellectual growth. By developing skills as problem solvers, we develop strength of character and improve the quality of our lives.
The chapter presents a variety of personal and nonpersonal problems for analysis and an organizational plan for working systematically toward a solution. As students, most of you encounter problems at one point or another, and many of you will identify with the presented problems in this chapter as a process for dealing with them as suggested. Because problems often interfere with chances for academic and career success, this chapter is especially important. Through elaboration on a series of complex problem-solving questions, Chaffee focuses on the elements of searching for solutions. We are faced with a series of perhaps deceptively simple questions at first: What is the problem? What are the alternatives? What are the advantages and/or disadvantages of each alternative? What is the solution? How well is the solution working? The thinking activities presented in this chapter help you apply the problem-solving method to both personal and non-personal problems.
Towards the end of the chapter, we are challenged with the awareness that, as critical thinkers, we will often be faced with solving complex social problems in our roles as members of a community, a society, and the world. Think about issues you are facing in your local communities (gentrification, lack of educational resources, crime), in our society (unemployment, healthcare, poverty), and globally (technology, warfare). As critical thinkers, what solutions can we offer for any of these given problems?
