MBTI 2-2 Feeling v.s. Thinking

It is important to define "feeling" and "thinking" clearly. In everyday language, these terms are frequently used as if they mean the same thing. For example, saying "I feel that" can often be replaced with "I think that." However, in MBTI theory, feeling and thinking represent opposite concepts and are considered dichotomies.

Feeling and thinking are considered judging functions that support all our claims.

Here is a list of claims:

• We should engage in lifelong learning.

• We need to be cautious when using the Internet.

• Water consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom.

• We can acquire various skills by watching online videos.

Our next step is to distinguish thinking and feeling.

What is thinking and feeling in MBTI theory?

Thinking involves reasoning the truth of a claim.

Extraverted thinking (Te) is when a person understands how others think, while introverted thinking (Ti) is when a person is aware of their own thought processes.

Feeling focuses on evaluating the goodness of a claim.

Extraverted feeling (Fe) is when a person understands how others feel, whereas introverted feeling (Fi) is when a person is aware of their own feelings.

Two question:

1. Evaluating (F), or truth-reasoning (T)?

2. Know others (e), or self (i)?

   
   

Exercise: Identify the cognitive functions (thinking or feeling) shown in the statement provided.

I am not happy because I don't have enough money to buy an ice-cream.

Answer: Introverted feeling (Fi). The statement suggests that the individual self-perceives that not being able to afford an ice cream is a bad experience.

The boy is not happy because he doesn't have enough money to buy an ice-cream.

Answer: Extraverted feeling (Fe). The statement implies that the individual understands the boy sees not being able to afford ice cream as a bad experience.

Scientists generally believe that the earth is round.

Answer: Extraverted thinking (Te). The person understands the group's (scientists') perspective on the truth about the shape of the earth.

The popular film that I have watched does not make any sense to me. I can point out some logical errors about the plot.

Answer: Introverted thinking (Ti). The person understands that their view of the film may not match the actual truth.

Work ethics are crucial for an organization's stability.

Answer: Extraverted feeling(Fe). Work ethics and organizational stability are based on what a group of people considers good.

You should make your bed every day.

Answer: Introverted feeling (Fi). Making the bed is viewed positively by the individual only but not others.

Wait, my answer is different from yours!

In many cases, it's hard to identify which cognitive functions are at play without context. Additionally, multiple functions can be involved. An interesting point is that we analyze speeches through our own cognitive functions, which can complicate the process even more.

To understand someone better, pay attention to how they talk and act. Notice if they talk more about themselves or about others. This can give clues about whether they think more inwardly (introverted) or outwardly (extraverted). It's important that they are honest about where their ideas come from, whether it's their own opinion or someone else's theory.

Better observe your thoughts and feelings to see if they are more extraverted or introverted.