SparX by Mukesh Bansal cover image

SparX by Mukesh Bansal

Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World by Guru Madhavan

Feb 17, 2025
01:04:55

Join us as we explore the complex challenges of "wicked problems" with Guru Madhavan, renowned engineer and author of "Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World.” We uncover the fascinating story of Edwin Link, a pioneer who revolutionised aviation engineering with the invention of the first mechanical flight simulator. Guru Madhavan shares his insights on how historical and socio-cultural contexts shape engineering solutions, and highlights the critical role of systems engineering in tackling complex challenges that require a multifaceted approach.

Tune in for engaging stories, expert insights, and a fresh perspective on the power of engineering to create positive change.


Join us as we explore the complex challenges of "wicked problems" with Guru Madhavan, renowned engineer and author of "Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World.” We uncover the fascinating story of Edwin Link, a pioneer who revolutionised aviation engineering with the invention of the first mechanical flight simulator. Guru Madhavan shares his insights on how historical and socio-cultural contexts shape engineering solutions, and highlights the critical role of systems engineering in tackling complex challenges that require a multifaceted approach.

Tune in for engaging stories, expert insights, and a fresh perspective on the power of engineering to create positive change.


Resource List - 

Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World, Book by Guru Madhavan - https://amzn.in/d/5Yx6Rxs 

Applied Minds - How Engineers Think, Book by Guru Madhavan - https://amzn.in/d/5GMOzNn 

What are Wicked Problems? - 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wicked_problem 

https://www.stonybrook.edu/commcms/wicked-problem/about/What-is-a-wicked-problem 

https://www.resonanceglobal.com/blog/the-characteristics-of-wicked-problems#:~:text=In%202023%2C%20the%20term%20'wicked,certainly%20a%20'wicked%20problem'. 

About Edwin Link - 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Edwin_Albert_Link 

https://www.simulationinformation.com/hall-of-fame/members/edwin-albert-link/

More about the Link’s ‘Link Trainer’ - 

https://www.nasflmuseum.com/link-trainer.html 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Link_Trainer 

https://www.nationalmuseum.af.mil/Visit/Museum-Exhibits/Fact-Sheets/Display/Article/196852/link-trainer/

https://rastek.com/the-worlds-first-commercially-built-flight-simulator-the-link-trainer-blue-box/

More about Chaplin Airlines - 

https://www.islapedia.com/index.php?title=Chaplin_Airlines,_Santa_Catalina_Island 

https://www.laalmanac.com/transport/tr707.php#google_vignette 

Read about Philosophy and Engineering - 

https://hbr.org/2024/04/why-engineers-should-study-philosophy

https://core.ac.uk/download/pdf/144214599.pdf 

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/269921583_Philosophy_of_Engineering_What_It_Is_and_Why_It_Matters 

Read more about the Great Molasses Flood - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Molasses_Flood

https://www.history.com/news/great-molasses-flood-science



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