Ptolemaic Metamodelling?: The Need for a Paradigm Shift

Abstract

By consideration of scientific paradigm shifts, in this paper we evaluate possible parallels in the evolution of modelling, and particularly metamodelling and modelling language construction, as a basis for evaluating whether or not the time is ripe for a similar change of direction in model language development for software engineering. Having identified several inc onsistencies and paradoxes in the current orthodoxy, we then introduce a number of ideas from outside software engineering (including language use, philosophy and ontology engineering) that seem to solve many of these issues. Whether these new ideas, together, are sufficient to create a shift in mindset or whether they are simply the stimulus for others to create new and orthogonal ideas remains to be seen. We urge the modelling and metamodelling communities to search out that new orthodoxy (i.e. instigate a paradigm shift) that will, necessarily, ensure that our science will offer simpler and more satisfying solutions in the years to come.