Thinking

Thinking is the process by which individuals form ideas, make decisions, solve problems, and engage in creative activities. It is a cognitive process that involves the manipulation of information and mental representations.

Overview

Thinking is a higher cognitive function and the analysis of thinking processes is part of cognitive psychology. It is also deeply connected with our capacity to make and use tools, to understand cause and effect; to recognize patterns of significance, to comprehend and disclose unique contexts of experience or activity, and to respond to the world in a meaningful way.

Types of Thinking

There are several types of thinking, including:

• Abstract thinking: This involves understanding concepts that are real, such as freedom or vulnerability, but which are not directly tied to concrete physical objects and experiences.

• Concrete thinking: This is thinking about physical objects or events that are available to the senses.

• Divergent thinking: This is a thought process or method used to generate creative ideas by exploring many possible solutions.

• Convergent thinking: This is a term coined by Joy Paul Guilford as the opposite of divergent thinking. It generally means the ability to give the "correct" answer to standard questions that do not require significant creativity.

Thinking and Intelligence

Intelligence is closely associated with thinking. It is the ability to learn from experience, solve problems, and use knowledge to adapt to new situations. It is often measured through intelligence quotient (IQ) tests.

See Also

• Cognition
• Critical thinking
• Decision making
• Problem solving
• Creativity

References

Thinking Resources
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