The Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) categorizes personality types into four dichotomies, including the two that are relevant to this question:
Intuition (N) vs. Sensing (S): This dichotomy describes how individuals perceive and process information. Intuitive types (NTs and NFs) tend to focus on abstract patterns, possibilities, and potential future outcomes, while Sensing types (STs and SFs) focus more on concrete facts and details of the present reality.
Thinking (T) vs. Feeling (F): This dichotomy pertains to how individuals make decisions and evaluate information. Thinking types (NTs and STs) rely on logical analysis and objective criteria, while Feeling types (NFs and SFs) consider personal values, emotions, and the impact on people's feelings.
Given these descriptions, we can explore the idealism aspect of the question:
Idealism and Intuition (N): Both NTs and NFs are intuitive types, which means they share a propensity for abstract thinking and a focus on potential future outcomes. This inclination toward possibilities and future-oriented thinking can lead to idealism in both types. NTs (INTJ, INTP, ENTJ, ENTP) may approach idealism from a more logical and strategic standpoint, seeking practical solutions to improve systems or processes. On the other hand, NFs (INFJ, INFP, ENFJ, ENFP) may approach idealism from an emotional and values-based perspective, aiming for positive change and personal growth.
Idealism and Feeling (F): Feeling types, including NFs, tend to be more in tune with their emotions and values. This can contribute to a strong sense of idealism, as they are guided by their desire to make decisions that align with their personal ethics and the well-being of others. NFs may be driven by a vision of a better world and may work towards creating positive change in line with their ideals.
Considering these factors, both NTs and NFs can exhibit idealistic tendencies, but the underlying motivations and expressions of their idealism may differ. NTs may be driven by their vision of a more efficient and rational world, while NFs may be motivated by a vision of a more compassionate and harmonious world.
It's important to note that individual differences play a significant role in shaping personality, and not all individuals of a particular type will display the same level of idealism. Additionally, other factors, such as upbringing, life experiences, and cultural influences, can also contribute to an individual's idealistic outlook regardless of their MBTI type.