Recognition of a Problem
The starting point in any conscious attempt at rational decision-making must be the
recognition that a problem exists. Only when a problem is recognized can the work
toward its solution begin in a logical manner. In the early 1970's, for example,
it was discovered that a number of species of ocean fish contained substantial
concentrations of mercury. The decision-making process began with this recognition
of a problem, and the rush was on to determine what should be done. Research into
the problem revealed that fish taken from the ocean decades before, also contained
similar concentrations of mercury. Thus, the problem had existed for a long time;
yet, it was not until recently that the problem was recognized.
In typical situations, recognition is obvious and immediate. An auto accident,
an overdrawn check, a burned out motor, an exhausted supply of parts or whatever,
produces the recognition of the problem. Once we are aware of the problem, we can
take action to solve it as best we can.
This page was created by Timothy N. Burcham on 2/26/97 and was last updated on 2/26/97. The URL for this page is { }.