What is a Paradigm?
A Paradigm
The word paradigm is derived from Greek and was originally a scientific term. Today it is more commonly used to mean an assumption, perception or frame of reference. Effectively, it is the ‘lens’ through which we ‘see’ things i.e. our perceptions, understanding and interpretations.
Another way to think of a paradigm is as a map. Whenever we use a map we are relying upon someone’s understanding and representation of a geographic area. If a map is incorrect (e.g. a map of Glasgow is titled as a map of London) then it is does not matter how hard we try or how positive our attitude is – we will get and remain lost!!
As a paradigm is based upon subjective experiences, different people will hold and harbour very different paradigms. A classic visual example of this involves a graphic depiction which can represent either a young lady or an old woman (please refer to the graphic at the top of this page). In business, people will have very set perceptions and views as to the current value and future potential of their business. Their perception – or paradigm – will influence their actions and activities. The success or failure of that business will depend, to a large extent, upon the accuracy and reality of the paradigm!
A Paradigm Shift
The term ‘Paradigm Shift’ was introduced by Thomas Kuhn in his landmark book, ‘The Structure of Scientific Revolutions’, in which he highlighted that every significant scientific breakthrough involved shifting from traditional ways of thinking – or paradigms. Examples include Copernicus, the astronomer, who broke with Ptolemy and all of the other ‘giants’ of the day and argued that the sun, not the earth, was at the centre of the universe. For bringing about this dramatic paradigm shift he faced resistance, ridicule and persecution – but ultimately he was proven right!
Not all paradigm shifts need be so dramatic, as Frank Koch experienced and recorded in ‘Proceedings’:
Two battleships assigned to the training squadron had been at sea on manoeuvres in heavy weather for several days. I was serving on the lead battleship and was on watch on the bridge as night fell. The visibility was poor with patchy fog, so the captain remained on the bridge keeping an eye on all activities.
Shortly after dark, the lookout on the wing of the bridge reported, “Light bearing in the starboard bow”.
“Is it steady or moving astern?” the captain called out.
Lookout replied, “Steady, captain,” which meant we were on a dangerous collision course with that ship.
The captain then called to the signalman, “Signal that ship: We are on a collision course, advise you change course 20 degrees.”
Back came a signal, “Advisable for you to change course 20 degrees.”
The captain said, “Send , I’m a captain, change course 20 degrees.”
“I’m a seaman second class,” came the reply. “You had better change your course 20 degrees.”
By that time, the captain was furious. He spat out, “Send, I’m a battleship. Change course 20 degrees!”
Back came the flashing light, “I’m a lighthouse.”
We changed course!
Although perhaps amusing for us to read in the comfort of our office or home. On the high seas, such an experience would have been tense, terrifying and potentially tragic. When the captain had a paradigm shift, his actions changed completely.
In many businesses today, there are strongly held perceptions and paradigms that are being followed aggressively. When things are not working, our experience is that there is a need for a paradigm shift to identify a route to success, profitability and value.
Do you or your business need to consider a paradigm shift?
- What is a Paradigm?
