Appendix VI Paradigm-Shift Matrix
Purpose. The matrix on the next page condenses the conceptual transition that underlies this book. It juxtaposes a Classical Atomistic--Mechanistic worldview---still implicit in much everyday reasoning---with a Relational--Process Emergent worldview that informs contemporary network science, developmental biology, systems thinking, and process theology.
Scope. Nine dimensions are listed: ontology, causation, change, epistemic method, evolution, governance, conflict, ethics, and the religious or theological imaginary. Each row is deliberately no more than one sentence per column, making the table a quick "switchboard" for readers who want to locate where their current intuitions sit and what would shift if they adopt the new paradigm.
Use. Readers may treat the matrix as (i) a checklist when evaluating theories; (ii) a glossary that unpacks terms used throughout the chapters; and (iii) a springboard for interdisciplinary dialogue, since every row maps onto an active debate in philosophy, social science, and theology.
::: {#tab:paradigm-shift} Dimension Classical / Atomistic--Mechanistic Relational--Process / Emergent
Basic ontology Substances first---discrete, self-contained entities with intrinsic properties Relations first---entities as nodes in dynamic webs; properties partly constituted by connections Model of causation Linear, efficient (\(A \rightarrow B \rightarrow C\)) Recursive feedback loops; upward + downward causation; patterns arise from cycles Pattern of change External push or design imposed by an outside agent Self-organising emergence from local interactions Epistemic method Analysis by decomposition; isolate parts, hold context constant Interaction mapping; model flows, constraints and real-time adaptation Evolutionary lens "Survival of the fittest" (competition among isolated units) "Fit of the network" (co-adaptation; links that stabilise the whole persist) Governance style Command--control hierarchy; top-down orders Distributed adaptive governance; authority node-specific and fluid Conflict grammar Blame and retribution; locate fault, punish Diagnostic empathy; surface needs, negotiate repair Ethical centre Rule-keeping, negative duty (avoid harm) Care and resilience; actively maintain relational health Religious / theological imaginary Transcendent monarch outside the system; worship = obedience Immanent communion within relations; the sacred unfolds through participation and agapē
: Paradigm shift: from a Classical Atomistic--Mechanistic view to a Relational--Process Emergent view :::