New Paradigm
A Comparison of Old and New Paradigm Perspectives
published on Want To Know
Our world is making a profound shift to a new paradigm. The old paradigm served humanity for many years, and in some ways serves us still. Yet this exciting new paradigm is paving the way for a more loving, harmonious way of living and interacting with all around us.
The below comparison is an attempt to capture the spirit of the old and new paradigm without the intention of making one better than the other, yet also inviting us to join in welcoming inspiring new ways which can support us all in being the best we can be and making a difference in our lives and world.
New Paradigm Comparisons
Old: Man is born into sin, essentially corrupt at the core.
New: All people in their core essence are beautiful and worthy of love.
Old: Hatred and vengeance are justified for wrongs suffered. An eye for an eye.
New: Love is the most transformative force. Forgiveness is an act of courage and compassion.
Old: Don’t show real feelings, or you’ll get hurt. Create a convincing persona to present to the world.
New: Welcome authenticity and vulnerability. It’s all about being honest and real with each other.
Old: Emphasis on hierarchies. Focus on competition so that the best rise to the top of the hierarchy.
New: Emphasis on equality. Focus on cooperation in order to support the greatest good for all.
Old: Avoid personal responsibility by blaming those above or below in the hierarchy.
New: Take personal responsibility for actions and learn from our mistakes.
Old: People need to be led or controlled by those believed to be better or more capable.
New: Each individual is a powerful creator capable of meeting their needs with the help of others.
Old: The mind and science are supreme. The scientific paradigm supersedes God and religion.
New: The heart and personal relationships are of paramount importance. The deepest essence of life is a divine mystery to be welcomed and explored.
Old: Don’t question accepted scientific paradigm. Focus on three-dimensional, five-sensory world.
New: Foster fluid intelligence. Explore the edges of consciousness, especially other dimensions and capabilities not believed to be possible under the old paradigm.
Old: Categorizing and dissecting nature allows us to better control it and to profit from it.
New: Recognizing the interconnectedness of all life leads to greater growth and harmony.
Old: Focus on order, discipline.
New: Welcome flexibility, even occasional chaos and disorder as means to see new possibilities.
Old: Value boundaries, borders, and divisions. These give security, safety, and comfort.
New: While respecting and honoring differences, look for shared vision and ways to work together. Take risks in order to grow. Short-term pain can bring long-term gain.
Old: You can’t trust anyone.
New: Surrender to and trust in a divine force greater than our egoic selves.
Old: Focus on defeating and conquering the enemy, us versus them. War against evil.
New: Committed to transforming and integrating life’s challenges. The external reflects the internal.
Old: Focus on details, complexity.
New: Remember the bigger picture. Identify simple principles behind the complexities of life.
Old: Look outwards for guidance. Don’t trust self. Have rigid rules and beliefs.
New: Look inwards and outwards for guidance. Develop intuition. Flexible guidelines and beliefs.
We all have our feet in both paradigms. How much we live in each paradigm is but a matter of degree. The old paradigm is not necessarily something to be shunned or avoided. There are times when principles of both paradigms can be useful and beneficial. Yet overall, the new paradigm invites more love, support, and deeper connection into our lives and world. In every moment, we can consciously choose the paradigm to which we give our focus, time, and energy.
Remember that all of us to some degree are afraid of our shadows. At times we avoid looking at the disturbing parts of ourselves and our world. Yet consider that a willingness to explore and even dance with these shadows can be a potent catalyst to a new paradigm. And when we set a clear life intention to support what’s best for all, our lives can’t help but become richer and more fulfilling.
For an incisive, inspiring two-page essay on developing a new paradigm for our world, click here. For a rich and empowering online course which beautifully inspires new paradigm awareness and is offered free of charge, see the Insight Course. If you have time for only one lesson in this heart and mind expanding course, check out the inspiring lesson three. And explore the PEERS network of empowerment websites which are all about creating a new paradigm at www.peerservice.org. Together, we are co-creating a new paradigm for us all. Thank you for playing your part.
