Thinking vs. Feeling Tendencies: Differences in Logic, Empathy, and Decisions

Introduction

The Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F) dichotomy is about how we make decisions. It is often stereotyped as "smart vs. emotional," which is completely wrong.

Thinking (T): Impersonal Logic

Thinkers prioritize objective truth and consistency. They ask: "Does this make sense? Is it logical?"

• Strengths: Fairness, objectivity, problem-solving, tough-mindedness.
• Blind Spots: Can overlook the human impact of decisions, may seem cold or critical.

Feeling (F): Personal Values

Feelers prioritize harmony and values. They ask: "Is this right? How will this affect people?"

• Strengths: Empathy, diplomacy, understanding people, moral courage.
• Blind Spots: Can be overly sensitive to conflict, may struggle to give negative feedback.

Both Are Rational

Feeling is not "emotionality"; it is a rational judging process based on value criteria. Thinking is not "intelligence"; it is a rational judging process based on logical criteria. You can be a brilliant Feeler or an emotional Thinker.