Feynman argues for an experimental approach to problems whose solutions are uncertain. In the wider passage, he notes that earlier attempts to address a problem had not produced the desired results, but treats the decision to try something different as encouraging rather than as evidence that further effort is pointless.

The quotation reflects a method of learning through action, evidence and revision. When there is no reliable formula for solving a complex problem, different approaches can be tested and their results examined. Failure then provides information about what does not work and can guide the next attempt. Feynman’s point is not that every new idea will succeed, but that continued experimentation preserves the possibility of improvement. The principle applies to scientific inquiry and more general problem-solving, particularly where uncertainty makes fixed solutions unreliable and progress depends on adapting to what experience reveals.

Full quotation

“Although we do not know how to solve the problem, I would like to point out that we tried two things, technical know-how and economic assistance. We are discouraged with them both, and we are trying something else. As you will see later, I find this encouraging. I think that to keep trying new solutions is the way to do everything.”