  Kuhn (1962) proposed an evolutionary model to explain how scientific
knowledge is built, based on the concept of paradigm. Even though Kuhn's model
is general, it has been applied only to a few topics in evolutionary biology,
especially broad-based paradigms. Our goal here is to analyze a small-scale
paradigm change that occurred about the mating system of a Mediterranean shrub:
P. angustifolia (Oleaceae) through the lens of Kuhn's model. We first summarize
the different steps of the paradigm change and replace them in the more general
context of the sex ratio theory. Second, we show how the different steps of the
paradigm changes can be interpreted by Kuhnian concepts and tools. Finally, we
discuss the actual and future status of the new paradigm.
