Psychology of scientific cognition – minds and problems

Abstract

In the theory of scientific cognition most neglected side are individual differences in cognitive preferences and mind types. Specifically this differences can be described on the basis of Jung’s theory of two basic pairs the functions of consciousness (sensing versus intuition; thinking versus feeling). In the context of this theory the consciousness isn’t a kind of neutral operator  in functioning of human mind. This simple and complete typology create the four mind types with characteristic tendency to discovering, defining and solving the definite scientific problems. In the article each type is described in the terms of specific cognitive preferences and aversions. The general line of argumentation is that interaction between problem space (in the objective meaning) and mind type are important for more complete and psychologically valid description of scientific cognition.