Discussion of the Method: Conducting the Engineer's Approach to Problem Solving

While the study of the engineering method is important to create the world we would have, its study is equally important to understand the world we do have.
--Billy V. Koen, Introduction, Discussion of the Method

Discussion of the Method outlines the heuristic-based reasoning used by engineers and generalizes it to a universal method for problem-solving. Delving into the connection between engineering and philosophy, this ground-breaking text illustrates how the theoretical and the practical can merge to form real-world solutions. Furthermore, the methodology covered in this innovative book is extremely user-friendly, and easily synthesized with individual approaches to problem-solving. Discussion of the Method is an ideal supplement for introductory and advanced courses in engineering, philosophy, and other disciplines, as well as a compelling read for general audiences.

THE METHOD: AN OVERVIEW

-Part I describes the problem situation that calls for the talents of the engineer and emphasizes how frequently this situation is encountered.

-Part II defines the heuristic and the engineering method.

-Part III lists examples of heuristics and techniques used to implement the engineering method, describes several alternative definitions of the engineering method, and renders the method in its final form.

-Part IV generalizes the engineering method to a universal method.

-Part V gives a concise, justifiable statement of universal method.

-Part VI delivers a specific example of the universal method in use.