Exploring the Candle Problem: Insights into Problem-Solving and Creativity

Introduction

The Candle Problem, originally devised by psychologist Karl Duncker in 1945, serves as a classic illustration of functional fixedness and the complexities of problem-solving and creativity. In this experiment, participants are presented with a candle, a box of matches, and a box of tacks. The objective is to attach the candle to a wall in such a way that it burns without dripping wax on the floor. The purpose of this report is to explore the implications of the Candle Problem on our understanding of cognitive processes related to creativity and problem-solving. By examining how participants approach the problem, we can gain insight into the cognitive barriers that hinder innovative thinking and how such barriers can be overcome.

The Candle Problem and Functional Fixedness

At the core of the Candle Problem is the concept of functional fixedness, which refers to the cognitive bias that limits a person’s ability to use an object only in the way it is traditionally meant to be used. In the Candle Problem, many individuals initially overlook the potential