This week is dedicated to the rational function of THINKING – FEELING.

This dimension is responsible for the way we assess and evaluate incoming information. Both of these functions are described as rational, as they are guided by evaluation.

1. People with the THINKING function – assess reality on the basis of the true–false criterion, striving to objectify reality.
2. People with the FEELING function assess reality on the basis of the pleasant–unpleasant criterion, guided by subjective considerations.

Importantly, individuals with dominant Thinking as well as those with dominant Feeling can be sensitive and attuned to the needs of others, just as both can be guided by reasoning and logic. In describing this dimension, Jung merely drew attention to the difference in choosing the criterion of true/false vs pleasant/unpleasant.

The way we assess reality can consequently lead to making a specific decision, though this does not mean that my preferred function will dictate how I make that decision. The decision-making process takes longer than the initial assessment, so when making decisions (especially highly engaging ones), I can draw upon a function that is not my preference. What is characteristic is that our dominant preference will speak up and activate first, and only later can I engage my less preferred function.