Form of Thinking
The four distinct small groups within a category and their psychological implications for personality typing.
Small Group Analysis
Small groups represent the intersection of four personality types that share common characteristics. Each group reveals fundamental patterns in how types process information, make decisions, and interact with the world.
Category's Small Groups
Deterministic
Group Description
Operates through cause-and-effect chains. Builds long logical sequences, deriving complex conclusions from simple premises. Follows predetermined pathways with consistency. Excels at algorithmic processes and mathematical reasoning. Computational in nature.
Analogy: Like a train moving along a fixed track, one station at a time.
Learning
Classical learning. With grades/evaluations. Emphasis on positive reinforcement.
Fractal
Group Description
Examines subjects by rotating through different viewpoints. Shifts angles rapidly without smooth transitions. Creates a "flickering" effect as focus jumps between perspectives. Operates like switching camera angles rather than following linear progression.
Analogy: Like a kaleidoscope showing multiple views of the same object simultaneously.
Learning
The ability to flip a situation and see it from the other side. Learning through contrast. (Imagine the same thing but reversed…).
Vortical
Group Description
Functions through rapid trial and variation. Makes decisions quickly, then tests and refines them. Uses natural selection principles - retains useful ideas, discards ineffective ones. Operates through intuitive exploration rather than systematic logic.
Analogy: Like a whirlpool mixing different elements together until something useful emerges.
Learning
Don’t sweat the details. Grab it and do it. Learn on the fly by trial and error — an experimental, hands-on approach.
Dialectical
Group Description
Functions through opposing ideas in constant tension. Identifies and explores contradictions. Operates via internal dialogue between conflicting viewpoints. High-energy process that works well with probabilities and uncertainty. Thrives on debate and opposition.
Analogy: Like waves in constant motion, with crests and troughs continuously transforming.
Learning
Learning by running through different scenarios (encountering and replaying scenarios — “what happens if we do this...”). Probabilistic / based on likelihoods.