Paradigms

The ideal model of something, that is the definition of paradigm. I start with the definition because many may not be familiar with the word.

Our days follow a routine that often becomes a paradigm to organize our normal days. Exceptions, of course, happen such as holidays. Over time, however, we tend to treat our holidays similarly, which suggests another paradigm.

Reactions to life’s happenings take on patterns as well. Do this often enough and a paradigm emerges.

I think paradigms become so ingrained in our life’s experience, we tend to not notice them. Another example: clap your hands and then hold them in place. Now, consciously place the hands in the opposite position. Feels strange, doesn’t it? Well, that is because the first position of hand clasping is your normal. You tend to always assume this position. The opposite feels very odd, unless your habit switches over time to that position. Then that is the paradigm you will adopt.

Viewing the world and its many meanings relies on our perceptions and assumptions thereof. That is a paradigm unnoticed by the self. In discussion with others over our differences, we become aware of how different we perceive the world to be. That difference, however, may be slight. In other circumstances that slight difference may actually demonstrate how similar our views are to one another’s.

Recognizing the paradigm here is tantamount to building a compromise understanding of the world view and lead to agreement. Enough agreement and we may actually find ways to change the conditions that produce the disagreement in the first place. Enough of these instances and we could solve many ills of the world.

Paradigms matter. They are the key to understanding others. And this bit of understanding is key to making compromise. Working together for common outcomes is possible only through compromise. With that we change the world.

It is a large leap for this to happen. But it only takes small steps.

We need more people to take those steps. In all walks of life. Home is the starting place. It might lead to a congress that can finally get something done that is worthwhile to us all.

Is that asking too much? My paradigm says no.

December 29, 2023

 


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