Intuition (N) — Introspective, absorbed in ideas, focuses on what might happen, relies on imagination.
Thinking (T) — Tough, follows the mind, suppresses feelings, focuses on objectivity and rationality.
Perception (P) — Probing, prefers keeping options open, reluctant to commit, seeks freedom.
Notable INTPs:
- Albert Einstein, physicist
- Socrates, philosopher
- Blaise Pascal, mathematician, philosopher
- Isaac Newton, physicist
- Carl Jung, psychologist
- Dwight D. Eisenhower, former U.S. president
- Gerald Ford, former U.S. president- Blaise Pascal, mathematician, philosopher
- Isaac Newton, physicist
- Carl Jung, psychologist
- Dwight D. Eisenhower, former U.S. president
INTP Personality Portrait
"Forming around 3% of the population, INTPs love theories and believe that everything can be analyzed and improved. They are not that concerned about the real world and practical things — from the INTPs’ perspective, it is often less exciting than ideas and intellectual pursuits. People with this personality type have no difficulties noticing patterns where others cannot — this makes them brilliant theorists and analysts.
"The accumulated knowledge is the most valued asset of any INTP. Imagine an immensely complicated clockwork which is constantly absorbing, processing and generating all kinds of theories — this is how the INTP mind works. People with the INTP personality type possess the most logically precise mind of all personality types — they can easily notice even the tiniest discrepancies between two statements, no matter how much time would have passed in between. It is a bad idea to lie to an INTP. They may appear dreamy sometimes, but this is not because their mind is resting — quite the opposite.
"INTPs are enthusiastic and impartial when it comes to dealing with problems — they drill through the details and then develop a unique approach and ultimately a viable solution. INTPs are usually very intelligent and insightful people, able to remain unbiased in any situation. They absolutely love new ideas and theories and would never miss an opportunity to discuss them with other people — however, this never-ending thinking process also makes them look somewhat pensive and detached, as INTPs are perfectly able to conduct full-fledged debates in their own heads.
"Individuals with the INTP personality type are likely to be very open-minded and even eccentric. These traits, combined with their capacity for inventiveness and original thought, make up a very powerful mix — it is not surprising that INTPs are responsible for many scientific discoveries. An INTP is unlikely to care much about social expectations and the “usual” goals such as job security — however, they will do their best to find an environment where their creative genius and potential can be expressed."
— Myers-Briggs Type Indicator
