Ends, Means, and Adaptability

Abstract

The solution of any problem, the attainment of any goal, requires the analysis of the situation into its necessary parts or elements, organizing them into appropriate means-ends relationships, and employing them in ways consonant with the end sought. Stated in a different way—the validity of any means or approach, the appropriateness of any goal-related behavior, is inextricably dependent on the nature of the goal itself. As the end changes, a review must be made of the means of instrumentation and these must be open to modification if anything approaching an adequate solution of the problem is to be had or maintained. Even with ends held constant, changes in the environment within which the goal is embedded may render necessary the utilization of different means.