A paradigm is a framework or model that shapes how we understand and interpret the world around us. It includes the beliefs, values, and practices that define a particular discipline or field of study. For example, in science, a paradigm might refer to the accepted theories and methodologies that guide research, such as the scientific method. When a significant shift occurs in understanding, it can lead to a new paradigm, often referred to as a paradigm shift. This change can transform how people think about a subject, as seen in the transition from Newtonian physics to Einstein's theory of relativity. Paradigms help organize knowledge but can also limit perspectives if not challenged.