Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges
Grand Challenges represent the wicked problems that society faces—complex, persistent, and difficult to solve due to incomplete, contradictory, and ever-changing demands. Yet, addressing them is essential for humanity and life on Earth to survive and thrive. My work is dedicated to confronting these monumental issues.
These challenges are too vast for any single mind to fully comprehend or solve. They are multi-dimensional, with deep systemic roots that are reflected in legislation, policies, social behavior, and even individual thoughts and mindsets. These factors limit our ability to effectively address them.
However, there are models and frameworks I’ve developed to help organizations and activists collaborate in making tangible progress. These stem from my experience at the World Bank, where I’ve witnessed both the successes and failures of multinational efforts, and from my work with Grand Challenges in sectors that include maternal health in Kenya, earth science, finance, nursing, and mental health.
Seth Kahan on Grand Challenges
Tackling Wicked Problems Through Grand Challenges: Navigating Complex Systems and Interdependencies
In this podcast, we’ll explore “wicked problems” —complex social issues like poverty or climate change—using a “systems model for change.” This model emphasizes three interconnected levels: personal beliefs, social systems, and structural systems. Grand Challenges, such as “Healthy Nurse, Healthy Nation” or improving ultrasound proficiency, demand changes across all three. For instance, healthier nurses (personal) need supportive workplace environments (social) and stronger healthcare policies (structural). Meanwhile, boosting ultrasound skills requires comprehensive training (personal), institutional support (social), and clear regulations (structural). Engaging everyone at every level is crucial: individuals, communities, policymakers, and anyone affected. Collaboration ensures buy-in and fosters lasting solutions. Although these challenges are complex, they’re solvable through coordinated efforts that address each layer of the system. Inspired by Kenneth McLeroy’s CDC model, we see that true change is social, requiring community-driven, multifaceted approaches to transform big issues into collaborative progress.
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