1. Paradigms

2. Paradigm Defined A paradigm is a set or pattern of ideas, beliefs and values used by individuals and societies as a means of making sense of reality. People choose and/or accept patterns of ideas, beliefs and values known as paradigms. A widely accepted paradigm will seem to be common sense to people who believe it. A group of different paradigms about a variety of aspects of life form the basis of a worldview.

3. Worldview and Paradigms A paradigm is a set pattern of ideas, beliefs and values used by individuals and societies as a means of making sense of reality. Paradigms have a powerful effect on how people see the world. In other words, paradigms determine worldview. Paradigms act as filters: facts fitting the paradigm are accepted, while those not fitting the paradigm are distorted, rejected ignored or not even perceived.

4. Paradigm Shift A paradigm shift is the process in which patterns of thought and behaviour change

5. Perceptions