Defining Solution: A Complex Bricolage to Solve Public Problems

Abstract

While problems have given rise to numerous studies that have focused on the construction and definitional activities driven by actors, solutions have often been seen as neutral tools requiring no specific definitional activity. Moreover, literature on public policy has employed the term “definition” exclusively to tackle the problem agenda setting process. Authors have generally used the term “formulation” with regard to solutions (Jones, 1970). As a consequence, “to formulate” a solution primarily refers to finding a solution by resolving a problem, rather than defining it. While the concept of “formulation” presupposes a single, unique, and non-debatable meaning, that of definition presupposes varied interpretations. Finally, while “defining” a problem means acknowledging that problems have political implications, “formulating” solutions seems to be more neutral.