Questioning in Decision-Making and Problem-Solving
Rational decision-making and problem-solving require conscious questioning. By applying logical questions about goals, alternatives, and implications, we can make better choices and solve problems effectively.
THE IDEA
Questioning in Decision-Making and Problem-Solving
Everyday life is an endless sequence of decisions. Some decisions are small and inconsequential; some large and life-determining. When we consistently make rational decisions, we live a rational life. When we consistently make irrational decisions, we live an irrational life. Rational decisions maximize the quality of one’s life without violating the rights or harming the well-being of others. Rational decisions maximize our chances of happiness, successful living, and fulfillment.
The same points can be made for problem-solving. Our daily lives are filled with problem-solving situations. The better we are at solving problems, the more fulfilled and rational are our lives.
The Logic of Decision-Making
To make rational decisions, we need to use our understanding of the logic of decision-making to routinely ask questions that improve the quality of our decisions. Through our questions, we raise the process of decision-making to the level of conscious and deliberate choice.
The logic of decision-making, then, is determined by the need to make a decision and the consequences that follow from that need.
- The goal: to decide between some set of alternatives, the one most in keeping with our welfare and the welfare of others.
- The question: “At this point in my life, faced with the alternatives (A or B or C or D), which is the one most likely to enhance my welfare and the welfare of others?”
Four keys to sound decision-making are:
- To recognize when you face an important decision
- To accurately identify the alternatives
- To logically evaluate the alternatives
- To act on the best alternative
Good thinkers routinely ask the following types of questions when making decisions:
- What should be my main goal in making this decision?
- From what point of view am I looking at this decision?
- What is the precise question I am trying to answer?
- What information do I need to answer this question?
- What can I safely assume in reasoning through this decision?
- What are my alternatives in this situation?
- What are some likely implications of my deciding this versus deciding that?
The Logic of Problem-Solving
Most of the points we made about decision-making can also be made about problem-solving. Problems are embedded in the fabric of our lives almost to the same extent as decisions. Every domain of decision-making is also a domain in which we have to solve problems. Every decision has an impact on our problems, either to minimize them or to contribute to them. Poor decisions create problems. Many problems can be avoided by sound decision-making early on.
Problems can be divided into two types:
- Problems that we ourselves have created by our own decisions and behavior.
- Problems created by forces outside of us.
Let us then divide each of these into two groups:
- Problems that we can solve, in whole or in part.
- Problems beyond our control.
Clearly, we are apt to have the best chance of solving problems that we ourselves have created, for we often have the capacity to reverse decisions we previously made and modify behavior in which we previously engaged.
When to use it
Making major life decisions such as choosing a college major, career change, or relocation.
Solving personal recurring problems like procrastination or financial overspending by analyzing underlying decisions.
Improving team decision-making in a business setting by introducing structured questioning during meetings.
Navigating ethical dilemmas where multiple stakeholders' welfare must be considered.
FROM THEORY TO EVERYDAY LIFE
In practice
Choosing a Career Path
When deciding between two career options, ask: What is my main goal? (e.g., financial stability, personal fulfillment, work-life balance). What alternatives do I have? (e.g., job A vs. job B, or even further education). What assumptions am I making? (e.g., that one job offers more growth). By systematically questioning, you can evaluate which choice aligns best with your welfare and the welfare of those you care about.
Solving a Recurring Conflict at Work
A team faces repeated misunderstandings. Using the problem-solving logic, first determine if the problem is self-created (e.g., poor communication) or external (e.g., unclear instructions from upper management). If self-created and solvable, ask: What decisions led to this? What alternatives do we have? (e.g., new communication protocols). Then act on the best alternative and monitor results.
A MOMENT TO REFLECT
Put it to work.
Think of a recent important decision you made. What questions did you ask yourself during the process? What questions could you have asked to improve the outcome?
Identify a problem you are currently facing. Is it self-created or caused by external factors? What part of it is within your control to solve? List the alternatives you can act on.
How often do you consciously evaluate the alternatives before making a decision? Write down three decisions you made this week and evaluate each using the four keys: recognition, identification, evaluation, and action.
CONTINUE THE CONVERSATION
Source texts
- The Art of Asking Essential Questions Based on Critical Thinking Concepts and Socratic Principles (Linda Elder, Richard Paul)