托福口语 Task 3

The concept of 'functional fixedness' refers to the tendency of individuals to perceive objects only in terms of their typical or intended functions, thereby limiting their ability to use those objects in novel ways to solve problems. This cognitive bias can hinder creative thinking and problem-solving because it prevents people from seeing alternative uses for familiar items. Overcoming functional fixedness often requires a deliberate shift in perspective, allowing one to reimagine an object's potential beyond its conventional role.

Professor: Let me give you a classic example from an experiment. Participants were given a box of thumbtacks, a candle, and a book of matches, and asked to attach the candle to the wall so that it could burn without dripping wax on the floor. Many struggled because they saw the box only as a container for thumbtacks. They tried to melt wax to stick the candle, but that didn't work. The solution was to empty the box, tack it to the wall as a small platform, and place the candle on it. Those who succeeded had to overcome functional fixedness by mentally redefining the box's purpose—from a container to a support. This shows how breaking free from typical uses can lead to effective solutions.