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A 'problem' is an obstacle which makes it difficult to achieve a desired goal, objective or purpose. It refers to a situation, condition, or issue that is yet unresolved. In a broad sense, a problem exists when an individual becomes aware of a significant difference between what actually is and what is desired. Every problem asks for an answer or solution.

Contents

Examples

Etymology

See also

Examples

★ Mathematical problem is a question about mathematical objects and structures requiring explanation and proof.

★ In society, a problem can refer to particular social issues, which if solved would yield social benefits, such as increased harmony or productivity, and conversely diminished hostility and disruption.

★ In business, a problem is a difference between actual conditions and those that are required or desired. Often, the causes of a problem are not known, in which case root cause analysis is employed to find the causes and identify corrective actions.

★ In chess, a problem is a puzzle set by somebody using chess pieces on a chess board, for others to get instruction or intellectual satisfaction from determining the solution.

★ In theology, there is what is referred to as the Synoptic Problem, which includes in its discourse a concern for assumptions of historical accuracy that are challenged by apparent contradictions in the Gospels' accounts of allegedly historical events.

★ In academic discourse a problem is a challenge to an assumption, an apparent conflict that requires synthesis and reconciliation. It is a normal part of systematic thinking, the address of which adds to or detracts from the veracity of a conclusion or idea.
The nature of problem. Problem binds the future and the past, in a never ending line.
Problem and life are tied together eternally.
Problem is like entering a castle with millions of doors to be opened one after the other.

Etymology

From Ancient Greek πρόβλημα (''próblēma'') "anything thrown forward, hindrance, obstacle, anything projecting, a headland, promontory", from προβάλλω (''probállō'') "to throw or lay something in front of someone, to put forward", from prefix προ- (''pro-'') "in front of" + βάλλω (''bállo'') "to throw, to cast, to hurl".

See also

★ Problem solving

★ Problem-based learning

★ Problematization

★ Open problem - List of unsolved problems

★ Heuristic

★ How to Solve It

★ Optimization problem

★ Decision problem

★ Wicked problem

★ Question