Outline and discuss the difference between critical theory and problem solving theory.
In regards to our view to the world order, Critical theory stands apart from the predominant order of the world and questions the origin or background of the order and how it came into existence while on the other side, Problem-solving theory proceeds or takes the world at its present, that is, it continues to operate within the prevalent social and power associations and the organizations that they are attached to in considerations of all aspects of activities.
Looking at the broad-spectrum aim for each theory, Critical theory majorly is engaged in the direction of an assessment of the very context for achievement, or difficult, which problem-solving theory takes as its constraints. Problem-solving theory operates within the fundamental or existing social and power relations and organizations effort efficiently by dealing excellently with specific causes of concern for instance; it focuses with the source of a threat and seeks to find amicable solutions to it before it escalates.
In terms of working attitude, Critical theory permits for a normative select diverse from the existing outline; scrap of such entity as “questionable substitutes” (Tyson, 2014). Problem-solving theory operates conventionally within the prearranged context; satisfying the predominant directive.
Perception or their standpoint on historical events, Critical theory viewed as ‘theory of history’ since it bases its concern not only to the past chronological happening but also looks at the unending progression of historical variation while problem-solving theory is regarded to ahistorical since it is only concerned with the present that is, it is focused on the present happening and the rational approach taken towards solving the arising or the present issue at hand.
Critical theory employs all-inclusive approach to issues in contrast; problem-solving theory is logical (Popper, 2013). Critical theory takes into consideration both past and present approaches to issues for instance, the approach a problem was tackled two decades ago would be scrutinized when taking a present problem decision. According to this critical theory works more on the principals of criticism since it takes holistic perception to all matters while problem solving theory works on the rational chances that is it weights the benefits than the demerits that are likely to arise from a specific decision which is to be taken, if the outcome will have more harm than good the chances of not being regarded are very high.
However, both theories have a similarity in their approaches, which is they often employ Marxism, Feminism, and Constructivism in their arguments. They advocate for community or societal based long-term decision making interests whilst they discourage at it individual level since it largely fights for the capitalism which according to the theories cause more harm than good (Moon, 2013).
In summary, the above highlighted differences emerge to provide both theories ideal depending on the situation individuals are confronted with but problem solving theory works best in a criminality setting since the global trends on such instances continue to change with the advancement in technology thus ideal in providing real-time viable solution to curb escalation of criminal activities. Whilst the Critical theory may work best in political platform in forecasting political happening though it's accuracy may be open to criticism (Colliver, 2000).
Reference
Colliver, J. A. (2000). Effectiveness of problem-based learning curricula: research and theory. Academic medicine, 75(3), 259-266.
Moon, J. A. (2013). A handbook of reflective and experiential learning: Theory and practice. Routledge.
Popper, K. (2013). All life is problem solving. Routledge.
Tyson, L. (2014). Critical theory today: A user-friendly guide. Routledge.
