Welcome to the third installment of our exploration of the Cognitive Perspective Mapping tool. In this post, we delve deep into the cognitive functions and attitudes as defined by Jung, specifically focusing on how they manifest within the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) framework. We'll explore each cognitive function in detail, discuss the attitudes of Introversion and Extroversion, and examine how understanding these aspects can be helpful when using the Cognative Mapping system to enhance initiatory practice. Defining Cognitive Functions
Before we dive into the specifics, it's essential to understand what we mean by cognitive functions. In Jungian psychology, cognitive functions are fundamental mental processes that inform our perceptions and judgments. They are the communicative processes of our psyche, governing how we gather information (Perception) and how we perceive conclusions (Judgment). This system assumes a person prefers certain cognitive functions over others, and that prefference influences our unique perspective and approach to the world.
In the context of contemporary magical theory, These would be natural interpretations/reactions of the SU to stimuli in the OU. Our model assumes that preference forms stable and predictable patterns of perception and reaction in the psyche, and that they consitute a natural cycle. That natural cycle is presented through MBTI as a personality type.
Carl Jung's energy theory distinguishes between Introversion and Extraversion based on the direction of psychic energy. Introverts direct their energy inward, focusing on internal thoughts, feelings, and reflections. Extraverts, on the other hand, direct their energy outward, engaging more with the external world and other people. When these attitudes are combined with the points on our axes, they display the relationship between these functions. The definition of these functions are as follows: INFORMATION-ACCESSING PROCESSES—Perception
Extraverted Sensing (Se): This function involves actively engaging with the immediate environment. It's about experiencing the context as it unfolds, being alert to changes and opportunities for action.
Introverted Sensing (Si): Si reflects on past experiences, drawing connections between the present and what has been. It seeks detailed, familiar information, often evoking a sense of nostalgia or tradition.
Extraverted Intuiting (Ne): Ne is about interpreting meanings and potentialities. It thrives on change and possibilities, often noticing what isn’t explicitly stated.
Introverted Intuiting (Ni): Ni is about foreseeing implications and realizing potentials. It involves envisioning transformations and understanding profound meanings or symbols.
ORGANIZING-EVALUATING PROCESSES—Judgment
Extraverted Thinking (Te): Te is about organizing and structuring. It applies logic and checks for efficiency and effectiveness.
Introverted Thinking (Ti): Ti analyzes and categorizes based on internal principles. It seeks a coherent understanding based on logic and consistency.
Extraverted Feeling (Fe): Fe focuses on connecting with others and maintaining societal values. It adjusts to and accommodates others, often considering the appropriateness or acceptability of actions.
Introverted Feeling (Fi): Fi is about personal valuation and authenticity. It involves assessing situations based on personal feelings and core values. Understanding the Interplay of Cognitive Functions
The diagram used in Cognitive Perspective Mapping visualizes how each function operates within the individual's psyche, with dominant and auxiliary functions at the forefront and shadow functions positioned at the rear. We can then discern that the functions at the graph's rear would benifit from practices that bring the initiate in better contact with the shadow functions.
Understanding one's cognitive preferences is invaluable in LHP practice. By identifying and working with our dominant cognitive functions, we can tailor our magical practices to resonate more deeply with our preffered cognative style, or to pull information from a shadow function.
By exploring cognitive functions and attitudes within the Cognitive Perspective Mapping model, we gain a deeper understanding of our internal awareness. This knowledge not only enhances our perceptions but also empowers us in our magical and personal endeavors. In my next post we'll introduce practical exercises to identify your positions on these axes and begin to integrate functions of the shadow into our chamber practices.
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