Wicked Problems’ Definitions and Characteristics: A Scoping Literature Review

Abstract

Wicked problems are multifaceted issues that are difficult to resolve due to their complex, ever- changing, and incomplete nature. They have no single solution and often involve various dimensions, such as technology, social, economic, policy, and environmental factors. Addressing wicked problems necessitates an interdisciplinary and systems approach. However, there remains a need for an interdisciplinary review that delivers a comprehensive understanding of wicked problem definitions, characteristics, and applications. Considering that wicked problems involve various dimensions and require interdisciplinary collaboration, a scoping review is an appropriate method to rapidly map the key concepts and sources of evidence across different fields, providing a more holistic perspective on the topic. Scoping reviews can foster greater awareness and knowledge-sharing among researchers and practitioners from different disciplines by summarizing and disseminating research findings. Additionally, they are instrumental in identifying research gaps in the existing literature. Recognizing these gaps is crucial for guiding future research on wicked problems and ensuring that emerging studies build on and expand current knowledge in the field. To conduct a scoping review on wicked problems, a comprehensive selection process was utilized to identify relevant articles. The eligibility criteria included using selected keywords, a time frame from 2000 to the present, English-language articles, and peer-reviewed publications. Only scientific articles from the following databases were considered to ensure high quality: ScienceDirect, Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus. For data management, the open-source program Zotero was employed to streamline the process of handling research materials. We identified 121 articles for the data pool to be analyzed. A standardized online form was used for identifying and collecting literature contributions and developments about a) definitions of wicked problems; b) characteristics of wicked problems; and c) factors that influence wicked problems (regulations, policies, institutions, etc.). Through our analysis, we have identified 100 definitions. Most of the research papers build their definitions on the work of Rittel and Weber (1973) or employ the definition that the latter have derived for wicked problems. With regard to the characteristics and factors, the scoping review highlights wicked problems as pervasive, unpredictable, and complex, involving political, economic, social, and environmental factors. Traditional approaches are inadequate, necessitating innovative, multi-dimensional, multi- stakeholder solutions. However, uncertainty and disagreement on addressing wicked problems persist, with no single solution. Furthermore, stakeholders view solutions’ applicability and efficacy differently, adding to the complexity. Purely scientific solutions are insufficient, as wicked problems are closely linked to societal issues, and solutions are subjective, based on stakeholders’ perceptions.