We need to address ourselves to the question of cost.

[kadioguy]

a. We need to address ourselves to the question of cost.
https://www.macmillandictionary.com/dictionary/british/address_2

b. We need to address the question of cost. [my version]

What is the difference in meaning between them?

Does (a) mean "we need to apply ourselves to doing something", while (b) simply means "we need to do something"?

 

[tedmc]

"Ourselves" is added to give emphasis, meaning "to take it upon ourselves".

Both versions mean the same thing.

 

[kadioguy]

Could native speakers join us?

 

[jutfrank]

a. sounds wrong to me. Your version b. is good.

 

[tedmc]

"Address oneself to something" is a set phrase.

address oneself to

Definition of address oneself to in the Idioms Dictionary by The Free Dictionary

idioms.thefreedictionary.com

 

[Tarheel]

Apparently they have been ignoring that issue (cost) previously.