Thinker Feeler Differences

I've always thought the T/F dichotomy represents the neuro-psychological manifestation of the philosophical distinction between Facts and Values.

Ti: Judgments based on an internal system of relating facts (logic, etc.)
Te: Judgments based on an external system of relating facts (empiricism)



Fi: Judgments based on an internal system relating values (???)
Fe: Judgments based on an external system relating values (social systems, politeness, etc.)

Good thread.. describes my "Thinker" side very well

Those descriptions are interesting. The problem with them is they focus on traits rather than functions. MBTI is about functional stacking order and trait dichotomies are just shorthand for that. Most tests make the same fundamental mistake, asking questions for one side or the other of a trait dichotomy instead of on function versus it's opposite function or even some other function.

Te, for example, is very concerned with rules and procedures. It is also empirical by nature, looking for specific data to draw conclusions. By definition, someone leading with Te should answer test questions geared toward trait dichotomies somewhat toward the S side. In reality, tests like this don't have any means to discriminate between the preferred auxiliary function, in thise case, either Ni or Si.

The same principle applies to the T/F distinction. The descriptions given by the OP are heavily geared toward extraverts, who use thier thinking or feeling function as primary. Things are a bit different for introverts. Introverts either a)lead with a percieving function, or b)lead with an introverted judging function. In case a, Ni or Si trumps Te or Fe as a general rule (not in every situation). In case b, Ti or Fi is focused internally and not expressed directly or readily as a general rule. In both cases, the outer behaviors and attitudes ascribed to T/F in the descriptions represent those who lead with an extraverted rational function the most, since they are a)leading with a judging function and b)leading with an extraverted function simultaneously.

It's not a coincidence that the people who expressed disatisfaction with the descriptions have thus far been introverts, because they don't apply to them as in black and white a manner. My reasons are different: The descriptions violate my sense of how functional stacking manifests in real people, it seems factually incorrect to me, so I felt compelled to point it out.

Thinking vs. Feeling
Decision-making Function

Someone who has a “thinking” preference will tend to make decisions using cause-effect logic, will focus on the problem first and the people second, tend to critique first then appreciate, acknowledge differences as a path to resolution, focus on the content of a message, and search for the underlying principles of a decision; Thinkers’ decision are usually objective, analytical, non-personal, and they will seek clarity and justice in and through their decisions.

Someone who has a “feeling” preference will tend to make decisions using person-centered values, will focus on the people first and the problem second, tend to appreciate first then critique, acknowledge common ground as a path to resolution, focus on the impact of a message, and search for the underlying values of a decision; Feelers’ decisions are usually subjective, experiential, circumstantial and they will seek harmony and mercy in and through their decisions.

(Got this off a website)

I've never taken the official MBTI exam, but I've taken several different tests online and get about the same in each one. I'm strongly INP, but on the line between T and F, with usually a very slight lean to F. Both INTP and INFP describe me equally well, and I can get annoyed with people I meet who are extremes of either side :P

I've always been an avid debater plus equal parts daydreamer and deep thinker. I noticed the thinking/feeling differences in people before discovering MBTI and codified my interpretation of those functions for myelf before I ever knew I was an INXP

Logic/Objectivity are tools for generating understanding and cooperation in fairness between varying value systems, but when unbalanced by feeling/subjectivity can lose sight of its ultimate purpose and lead to actions and attitudes which betray human need. I've always seen this most often in people who cling too stubbornly to blunt objectivity and drive people away because they can't be convinced to turn their logical functions towards developing social tact. They may be presenting what they think is the best objective compromise, but without applying Feeling, they're terrible at selling that compromise to others. Since discovering MBTI, I've especially noticed that introverted thinking types tend to run information through their value systems and present the conclusions as fact, while refusing to admit that those conclusions are in fact the product of a value system. I've seen many discussions turn bitter over this behavior.

Feeling/Subjectivity are used to generate value systems, which are inherently relativistic in nature, and thus (whether admitted or not) serve as a launching point for the logical functions, as all formations of objectivity and logic begin with interpretation of information that is limited by the subjective limitations of knowledge/experience. Feeling is also responsible for the most fundamental fabric of human relationships - that connection (good or bad) which may be explained only after it is developed. I think this is the part of us that gives us direction and meaning in life. Without the value systems generated by feeling, there is no way to generate priorities in life which translate into goals and eventually action. If feeling is left unchecked by thinking, it can also easily betray itself because selective use of objectivity is required to create the harmony it desires. Without any Thinking bridging the gap to value systems held by other individuals, which is what enables fairness and cooperation, pure Feeling is doomed to destroy the connections it creates.

I may be completely missing the point here, as I haven't read much about the stacking of functions in MBTI, but I hope I've offered something. I really think and feel that T/F is a very important balance for people to achieve and respect. I also agree that modern society is excessively T oriented.

Originally Posted by Ghrim

I really think and feel that T/F is a very important balance for people to achieve and respect. I also agree that modern society is excessively T oriented.

I definitely agree with you. Balance is key.

These explanations have been a fascinating read - thanks all! A few months ago, I took the Myers-Briggs and tested INFP. Then I took one today and tested INTP. I am under a lot of pressure in my life right now and feel like I am the only person who is "holding the fort" or "staying grounded" for my children and fiance. I've heard others say before that Feelers can become Thinkers through changes in circumstances or through sheer determination and cognitive-behavioral modification. Do you believe this to be true? Why or why not? If I am an INFP when others are holding the fort and an INTP when I am responsible for doing so, which might you say is my "true" attribute, T or F?

Confused
If you haven't already....

You may want to try this test, Home | Prelude Consulting
Also try mypersonality.info as well

Compare the results...
It may also be that you're borderline on F/T.

Lol! I got ESTP on the first test and INTP on the second. I noticed as I went through the second test that I had actually taken the first test thinking more about survival and fear, while taking the second one thinking about hope and rejuvenation. Mood has SO much influence on how these tests turn out... Anyway, I got T on both, so maybe it's safe to go with T for now!

I understand what you mean, when I first did the assessments a lot of the q.s. I kept thinking how I want to be or ought to be or have learnt to be, which is not the way to answer the questions!
What helps is not to be influenced by your environment or how you think people expect you to behave, but how you feel most comfortable and how you usually act or feel.

Ok, try this one, this one is different in that you can pick one or two choices out of the three. Remember to not answer what is expected of you, but how you USUALLY feel/act. (Don't think about what mood you're in now).

Discordia Inc. - Just who the HELL do you THINK you are?
(ignore that rude bit who the hell do you think you are lol)