paradigmeskift

Paradigmeskift is a Scandinavian term translating to "paradigm shift," denoting a fundamental change in the basic concepts, practices, or frameworks within a discipline, institution, or society. The notion of a paradigm shift entered scholarly discourse largely through Thomas S. Kuhn's 1962 work, The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, where he described scientific development not as linear accumulation but as episodic revolutions that replace one prevailing paradigm with another.

In use, paradigmeskift applies beyond the history and philosophy of science to technology, economics, politics, and culture. Historical examples commonly cited include the Copernican replacement of geocentrism, the rise of evolutionary biology, the advent of quantum mechanics, and more recently the digital and information revolutions. In organizational and social contexts, the term describes shifts in dominant practices or assumptions, such as moves toward sustainability or changes in governance models.

Typical features associated with a paradigmeskift are a period of crisis or anomalies within the old framework, the emergence of an alternative framework that better resolves those anomalies, and a rapid reorientation of theory and practice. Critics argue the concept can be applied too loosely, becoming a rhetorical device rather than an analytic tool, and that retrospective labeling can oversimplify complex, gradual developments. Nevertheless, paradigmeskift remains a useful concept for discussing discontinuous change in how problems are framed and addressed.