Solutions to Social Problems

Mr. Malcolm Forbes has, with great pertinence, made this observation about problem-solving: “It’s so much easier to suggest solutions when you don’t know too much about the problem.”

Facing a problem in even the most ordinary of social circumstances can be like having your shirt stuck in a thorn-tree. The more you pull it, the more it gets stuck. Even if you do succeed in extricating it, it gets torn to shreds in the process. It is then that patience is of the essence, for such situations require in-depth study, and attempts to solve such “thorny” problems should be done with great discretion.

Unless one is on the spot, one cannot understand the delicacy of certain situations and it is pointless to offer solution after solution.

Social life is, indeed, a complex affair. It is seldom desirable to take the initiative without at least having the tacit consent of others. The power and influence of others should never be ignored or underestimated.

All possibilities as well as all known factors should be taken into account and, having done this, one should learn to wait patiently for the opportune moment before taking any action. Confrontation should be avoided at all costs.

One who is truly sensitive to the complexities of societal existence will hesitate a hundred times before offering solutions which may offend the sense of delicacy of his fellow men.