The “paradigms” to shift: a layperson’s view on the current world’s systems

The world is operating within a certain set of “systems,” “norms” and mindsets since the industrial revolution, scientific management (Frederick Taylor’s) principles and the invention of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). They have been a critical part of human progress and we have gained a lot from these systems. But it is not until recently (despite warnings by experts earlier) that we are questioning them.

The systems, norms and mindsets I am referring to are:

• Economy.
• Consumerism.
• Convenience mindset.
• Mechanization of humans (think modern factory by Charlie Chaplin).

But before we go any further, I would like to explain why I used the term “paradigm shift.”

Why “paradigm shift”

This term has been overused and abused, but there is a very fundamentally logical explanation. American philosopher and scientist Thomas Kuhn coined the term in his 1962 book “The Structure of Scientific Revolutions.” What he said was that, science goes through four phases of being. Let’s use the simple example of listening to music at home to explain the four steps. I have also simplified the names of the phases for the purposes of this blog.

Phase 1: The beginning

In this phase, there are no agreed rules, no shared language. Here, everyone is trying to invent by starting from scratch.

Phase 2: Normal

This is the most common and longest phases. This happens when enough people have aligned to define the rules of the game. They become the boundaries or belief systems under which the other research, “inventions” and “discoveries” happen.

For example, cassettes, CDs and DVDs have been for the longest time, the normal mode of listening to music at home.

Phase 3: Crisis

After operating in “normal” phase, anomalies or inconsistencies come up. These do not fit under the normal “rules.” When enough anomalies have surfaced, people start the question the “rules” or the “systems.” This is the period of crisis.

For example, people wanted to listen to music on the go, leading to the invention of “Walkman’s” and digital music and iPods.

Phase 4: Revolution

A new system, a new set of rules and beliefs are formed — leading to a revolution.

For example, digital and streaming is the new paradigm for music — with Spotify, apple music, etc.

The paradigm shifts required

It is my sincere belief that we are between a crisis and revolution phase when it comes to our planetary habits and human values. We need to push ourselves to the revolution phase and make this the new normal.

Here are the overarching shifts required in the underlying assumptions of our current “normal”:

My next two blog posts will focus on the economy. What are your thoughts on this blog? I’d love to hear your views.

Before you go: