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Duncker's candle problem is a classic experiment used to demonstrate functional fixedness. In this task, participants receive a candle, a book of matches, and a box of thumbtacks, and are asked to attach the candle to a wall without allowing wax to drip onto the floor. To solve the problem, one must overcome the tendency to view the box solely as a container for thumbtacks, and instead empty it, tack it to the wall to serve as a shelf, and stand the candle inside.

Duncker's Candle Problem Experiment (1945)

In a classic problem-solving experiment, participants are given a candle, a box of thumbtacks, and a book of matches, and are asked to affix the candle to a wall so it doesn't drip. The solution involves emptying the box and using it as a shelf for the candle. Many participants fail to see this solution. What does this common difficulty primarily demonstrate?

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