The document outlines a 'fourfold path to effective thinking' which involves identifying root problems, proposing relevant and moderate solutions, evaluating possible outcomes based on predefined criteria, and determining the acceptability of those outcomes. Each step emphasizes the importance of understanding real causes, observing moderation, and ensuring the outcomes are constructive and do not generate new problems. The process aims to refine problem-solving approaches to foster better results and prevent issue recurrence.

1.
FOURFOLD PATH TO EFFECTIVE
THINKING
Do all normal persons engage in effective thinking? No, not all normal persons think effectively.
This is why I am proposing the “Fourfold Path to Effective Thinking.”
A Complete Cycle
Effective thinking proposed here should be used as a brainstorming activity in problem solving.
We should begin by asking what the root problems are. Next, we should propose solutions for
them. Then, we should anticipate the possible outcomes that might result from the proposed
solutions. And lastly, we should ask whether the outcomes are acceptable? if necessary, we
should refine the whole process from step 1 to 3 to reproduce better outcomes. Now, let's
examine each of these four steps in detail.
What Are the Root Problems?
In step 1, we ask the questions, what are the root problems and
how do we identify them?
Let’s take the analogy of a vascular plant or tree and their
roots. Generally speaking, the three main functions of roots
are: 1) To anchor the plant or tree in the ground so that it can
withstand soil erosion, violent winds and remain upright, 2) To
absorb water and nutrients from the ground for growth and
survival, 3) To cause vegetative propagation for its continuous
growth. The roots are therefore the cause of / for life for the
tree. Kill them and the tree dies.
Like the roots, every problem has a real cause that keeps the
problem alive and simmering. Problems are the symptoms. To
resolve problems, we must find the actual causes of the problems. Address and resolve the
actual causes and the problems will not only be resolved but will not recur. Always ask what are
the root problems?
©2015 by Thesigan Nadarajan

2.
FOURFOLD PATH TO EFFECTIVE
THINKING
What Are the Proposed Solutions?
For step 2, in proposing solutions to resolve the actual causes of problems, ​the principles of
relevancy, all­inclusiveness and moderation ​should be observed. What does these three terms
mean? Going back to the analogy of the tree. There are several methods to kill a tree. Let’s take
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a look at them. First is by girdling which involves removing the bark around the circumferences
of the tree thus preventing the movements of nutrients from the roots to the rest of the tree. The
tree will die gradually. Secondly is by using herbicide or salt to kill the roots. But in this method
it might bring long term damage to the soil and also affect surrounding vegetation. Thirdly is to
cut down the tree by stages and dig
out the roots.
Now let’s apply the three principles.
If we are only interested in killing this
particular tree and are not in a rush to
kill it than we can apply the first
method. If we are in a rush to kill it
than we can apply the third method.
Both these methods will kill this
particular tree only. ​This is the
principle of relevancy. ​The method used is relevant only to the particular root of the problem
concerned and does not affect others. Method number three demonstrates the principle of
all­inclusiveness. The tree is cut down and the roots are dug out to prevent regrowth. ​The
method is all inclusive as a solution​. Nothing is left to chance. In choosing not to use the second
method, ​moderation of actions is observed​. In the ancient days of war, the victors would kill
everybody, burn everything down and plough the fields with salt to permanently destroy the land
to ensure there is no fertility. There was no moderation in their actions. It was merciless, brutal
and extreme in destruction. It is for this reason that I personally consider some of these so­called
“great conquerors” in history as mere mass murderers whose solutions will be considered
genocide and anarchy by modern standards. In any proposed solution there should be the element
of moderation in consideration of humanity.
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​http://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/how­to­kill­a­tree­killing­trees­in­your­garden.htm
©2015 by Thesigan Nadarajan

3.
FOURFOLD PATH TO EFFECTIVE
THINKING
What Are the Possible Outcomes?
Care and caution should be observed in the choice of solutions as the possible outcomes from
them could be positive or negative. In the example above, if the second methodology had been
applied than the possible outcome would be negative, damaging the fertility of the soil and its
surrounding vegetation. ​This proves that the possible outcomes are dependent on the preceding
possible solutions. ​In step 3, we should examine the outcomes based on the following criteria:
1. The outcome(s) must be reasonably positive and constructive,
2. The outcome(s) in itself must not generate new problems (symptoms),
3. The outcome(s) must be reasonably satisfactory to concerned stakeholders,
4. The outcome(s) must ensure that the resolved problems (symptoms) must not recur.
Are the Outcomes Acceptable?
Based on the four criteria in step 3, step 4 will be the evaluative stage for the effective thinking
process.. If the outcome(s) are not positive and constructive than it is an indication that the
preceding steps 1 and 2 are not refined enough. And if the outcome(s) generate new problems
than steps 1 to 2 are definitely defective. If the outcome(s) does not satisfy the concerned
stakeholders than it is not client­centered. And if the outcome(s) show the problems might recur
again then everything should be reexamined. But if everything is okay then the process is
complete.
How you think is what you will
become
And what you will eventually do
©2015 by Thesigan Nadarajan