The Paradox of Problem Solving: When Solutions Create Worse Problems

Dr. Orion Terban introduces the counterintuitive idea that many problems are, in fact, their own best solutions. He argues that attempting to "solve" such problems often leads to a cascade of even more severe and unsatisfactory issues than if the original problem had been left untouched. This perspective suggests that most problems lack easy, inexpensive, or enduring solutions, necessitating patience, compassion, and a healthy caution against intervening in situations one knows little about. The burden of proof, according to Terban, lies with demonstrating that a problem is *not* its own best solution, implying a default assumption that it might be.

To illustrate this principle, Terban shares a personal example from his podcast production. He scripts his talks for conciseness, which requires him to occasionally look down, a "problem" that some viewers found distracting. His attempt to solve this by using a teleprompter, however, created a host of new, more complex problems: exaggerated eye movements due to proximity, the need for a new camera with zoom, and subsequent audio syncing challenges. Ultimately, he concluded that the original "problem" of looking down was the "least problematic problem of them all," demonstrating how well-intentioned solutions can inadvertently complicate a system.

Abstracting to the psychological domain, Terban applies this concept to human "dysfunctions" like selfishness, aggression, or cynicism. He posits that "dysfunction mostly works" by serving an important, often protective, role in an individual's life. Using cynicism as an example, he explains that while it cuts off positive emotions, it also shields against emotional pain. Removing such a "dysfunction" without understanding its underlying function can multiply an individual's problems, exposing them to greater disappointment or heartbreak. He cautions against simplistic advice like "go to therapy," highlighting the hidden costs, stress, and uncertain net positive outcomes of such interventions, especially when an individual's current "compromised position" might be the best they can manage.

Terban emphasizes that while conditions are not static and can evolve, it's crucial to accept the possibility that a perceived problem might be the optimal solution available at a given time. This acceptance, he argues, provides a more realistic and compassionate understanding of individuals and the societies they create. The core message is a call for systemic thinking, recognizing the intricate and often invisible connections within any system, and exercising profound caution before attempting to "fix" what might already be a finely balanced, albeit imperfect, equilibrium.

many of the problems you see are actually their own best Solutions

it's generally safer to assume that a problem that you encounter in life is its own best solution until sufficient due diligence proves otherwise

the burden of proof lies with demonstrating that a problem is not its own best solution

reading off my script was a problem that was its own best solution

I succeeded in creating several new problems for myself by solving the original problem

the original problem was the least problematic problem of them all

every part of a system is inextricably and often invisibly connected to every other

many problems are actually their own best Solutions but people often only realize this after they start messing with things

the word dysfunction is the word function

dysfunction mostly works and it mostly works by serving an important role in the life of the individual in question

the compromised position of cynicism may actually be the best they can do

whatever problem you've identified is the very best solution that can be implemented at the present time