Paradigms & Paradigm Shifts

Question 1

What is a paradigm?

Answer 1

The basic assumptions, ways of thinking and methods of study that are commonly accepted by members of a discipline or group

Question 2

What is a paradigm shift?

Answer 2

An important change in the basic concepts and experimental practises of a scientific discipline. It is a change from one way of thinking to another

Question 3

What are the 3 stages of the paradigm shift?

Answer 3

1. Pre-science
2. Normal science
3. Revolutionary science

Question 4

What is pre-science?

Answer 4

There are a number of theories that try to explain a phenomenon, but there is no genrwlly accepted theory or paradigm

Question 5

What is normal science?

Answer 5

A paradigm has emerged that has generally accepted main assumptions. This dominates the science and influences the type of questions that scientists ask. Overtime evidence that contradicts this paradigm emerges

Question 6

What is revolutionary science?

Answer 6

Evidence against the existing grows and leads the existing paradigm being questioned. New theories are put forward until the new paradigm is accepted. This can be a long drawn out process and many scientists resist a change attempt to support the old paradigm for his long as possible.