托福口语 Task 3

In psychology, the concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to a cognitive bias that limits a person to using an object only in its traditional or intended way. This mental block prevents individuals from imagining alternative uses for familiar items, thereby hindering creative problem-solving. When faced with a challenge, people often overlook novel solutions because they are fixated on an object's typical function. Overcoming functional fixedness requires a deliberate effort to reframe the problem and consider unconventional applications of available resources.

Professor: Let me illustrate this with a classic experiment. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, and a book of matches. Their task was to attach the candle to the wall so that it could burn properly without dripping wax on the floor. Many people tried to melt the candle and stick it directly to the wall, or use the thumbtacks to pin the candle—but neither worked. They failed because they saw the box only as a container for thumbtacks. However, the correct solution was to empty the box, tack it to the wall as a small shelf, and place the candle inside it. Those who succeeded were able to overcome functional fixedness by reimagining the box as a platform rather than just a holder.