托福口语 Task 3

In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to the tendency to see objects only in their traditional or typical roles, which limits our ability to imagine alternative uses for them. This cognitive bias can hinder problem-solving because individuals become 'fixed' on an object's conventional function and fail to perceive novel ways to utilize it. Overcoming functional fixedness often requires a creative shift in perspective, allowing the mind to break free from conventional associations and explore the object's broader potential.

Professor: Let me illustrate this with a classic experiment. Participants were given a candle, a box of thumbtacks, and a book of matches. Their task was to attach the candle to the wall so that it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many struggled. They tried to melt the wax to stick the candle, or nail the candle with tacks, but nothing worked. The solution? Empty the box of thumbtacks, tack the box to the wall, and place the candle inside it. The key was to see the box not just as a container for tacks, but as a potential shelf. Those who failed were stuck in functional fixedness—they saw the box only in its typical role. Once they shifted their perspective, the solution became obvious.