The Kuhn Cycle

CT.org continues to be interested in the methods and processes of other disciplines, believing they have application to community planning and the social sciences. In this case, J. Gerry Purdy, Ph.D. [gerry.purdy@mobilocity.biz] offers the Kuhn Cycle as a way to look at how progress is made; how progress is made through revolutionary change rather than evolutionary. The usefulness of this to community planning seems to be that paradigm shifts in cities must happen suddenly to have an effect. Waiting for gradual change is unlikely to be successful. Something to consider when facing a stagnate and undesirable civic situation; dramatic action, yet responsible dramatic action, may prove best. Hopefully you will find Thomas Kuhn’s work will be helpful.