Meaning of problem (what is it, concept and definition)

What is Problem:

A problem is a matter or question that must be solved or clarified, a contradiction or a conflict between what is and what should be, a difficulty or inconvenience to achieve an end or a displeasure, an annoyance or a concern.

The concept of problem in the sense of question to be solved is applicable to the most varied disciplines, such as mathematics, philosophy, ecology, economics, politics, sociology and methodology, among others.

Synonyms of problem can be: difficulty, inconvenience, complication or disappointment; enigma or unknown; matter or issue; doubt or question; obstacle or pregnancy.

The word problem, as such, comes from the Latin problem , and this in turn from the Greek πρόβλημα (problem).

See also the meaning of Question.

Social problems

Social problems are all those issues related to different social issues, such as health, well-being, quality of life, education, work, housing, security, access to opportunities, among others.

Social problems, in this sense, are issues that affect people's happiness and well-being. Their recognition and approach by politicians and the main social actors is essential so that they can be resolved effectively.

Ethical problem

An ethical problem is one that arises from a situation or event that raises a conflictive situation on a moral level. In this sense, the ethical problem translates into a choice that constitutes a conflict in itself, either because the alternatives are beneficial, or because they involve some difficulty or harm.

For the solution of an ethical problem, the individual must carefully consider the implications and consequences of his actions, as well as the suitability of his conduct according to the principles or values ​​by which it is governed.

See also:

• EthicsMoralEthics and morals

Environmental problem

As environmental problem or ecological problem is designated any change or disorder that affects the environmental balance. Environmental problems can derive from the impact of human activity or from environmental catastrophes that introduce imbalances or imbalances in a natural environment.

Environmental problems, in this sense, constitute a risk to the life (animal, plant and human) that inhabits a certain place. Examples of environmental problems are pollution (air, water, etc.), the hole in the ozone layer, indiscriminate deforestation, global warming, among others.

See also:

• Environment Environmental pollution Global warming

Research Problem

A research problem is that issue or question that a research project or research project aims to clarify.

The research problem, as such, is what justifies and guides the research process and the researcher's activity. Thus, the first thing to carry out a research work is to define, by applying different scientific-methodological criteria, all aspects of the phenomenon that is intended to be studied and explained.

See also:

• Research projectResearch methodology

Economic problem

The economic problem is called the theory that the available resources are insufficient to satisfy infinite human needs, which poses a conflict. As such, this principle of scarcity forces to manage resources efficiently, for which it must be determined what, how, when, how much and for whom it will be produced. The economy, in this sense, revolves around the need to solve the economic problem.