How did this wicked start?

The term "wicked" in the context of societal problems originates from the concept of "wicked problems," which refers to complex issues that are difficult to define and resolve due to their interconnected nature. The term gained prominence in the 1970s, particularly through the work of design theorist Horst Rittel, who highlighted how these problems are resistant to simple solutions and often involve multiple stakeholders with differing perspectives. Wicked problems typically include issues like climate change, poverty, and healthcare, which require collaborative and adaptive approaches to address effectively.