In postmodernism, a paradigm is a way of looking at reality specific to one social group. The rules of thought and consistency apply within a given paradigm, but cannot be applied to any other. In postmodern usage, patriarchy often refers to any norm or authority which might restrict freedom. The sphere of knowledge is limited to the empirical sciences. The movement in late 20th century thought that rejects enlightenment rationalism, individualism and optimism.
Postmodernism is characterized by nihilism and radical subjectivity.
See Chapter 5. The branch of physics that studies the movement of sub-atomic particles within atoms. Findings in this field have attracted popular attention because mystics have claimed that they prove certain monistic principles. See Chapter 11. An ideology of rationality where reasonableness is the final judge of all things.