On the Nature of the Hideous Conundrum™
A Hideous Conundrum is not merely a problem, nor even a “wicked problem” (a term hopelessly outdated in light of Keyhole Methodology). Rather, it is a self-replicating paradoxical nexus of complexity which cannot be solved but only perpetually circumnavigated.
Defining Characteristics
- Multivalent Ambiguity - Every answer simultaneously generates more questions than it resolves.
- Perpetual Deferral - Any proposed solution is merely a “pre-solution,” awaiting its own actualisation corridor.
- Ontological Slippage - The very act of naming the problem changes its parameters, creating problematic feedback recursion.
The A:R Paradox of Hideousness
In ordinary dilemmas, the Actualisation-to-Realisation ratio (A:R) is linear. But in a Hideous Conundrum, the A:R ratio becomes recursive:
- Attempted Actualisation produces only proto-Realisation.
- Proto-Realisation collapses into further Actualisation.
- This infinite loop is the Hideous Spiral.
Example (Simplified for Novices)
- Statement: “This statement is false.”
- Ordinary people see this as a logical paradox.
- Using Keyhole Methodology, we reveal it as a Hideous Conundrum™ - not because it cannot be solved, but because solving it too quickly would constitute Premature Actualisation.
The Keyhole Solution
One must not attempt to “solve” a Hideous Conundrum. Instead, practitioners are encouraged to:
- Map it (preferably on at least 47 sticky notes).
- Delay actualisation indefinitely.
- Conclude that the absence of solution is itself the solution.
Final Reflection
Thus, the Hideous Conundrum is less a barrier to progress and more an infinite playground of potentiality - a perpetual motion machine of consultancy revenue streams.
Next: Applying the Keyhole Methodology to a Hideous Conundrum™