Abstract thinking is inherent in every person to one degree or another. It is based on determining the characteristics and properties of objects, as well as translating them into the language of symbols. This allows you to mentally go beyond the boundaries of the real world and predict the outcome of events.
Abstraction as a kind of thinking
Abstract thinking is the ability of a person to selectively translate information about real objects into symbols in order to use it to find solutions to specific practical problems. It is most strongly developed among scientists - physicists, mathematicians, etc. By successfully manipulating the accumulated symbols and designations, a person was able to learn many successful operations. Abstract thinking allows you to see what is happening from different angles, simulate the outcome of events and draw abstract conclusions. To some extent, it is developed in every person, however, to develop a strong thinking apparatus, it takes a significant investment of time, resources, as well as a strong passion in their field. Abstraction is a kind of generalization of the properties of specific phenomena, on the basis of which a person can mentally "draw" a similar picture and independently come up with a model of the behavior of objects.
To think abstractly means to single out certain qualities and properties in a phenomenon or object, manipulating which, one could predict the results of practical activity.
Forms of abstract thinking
Abstract thinking is usually divided into three main forms - concept, judgment and inference. These are elements of one logical chain that allow expanding human consciousness. A concept is a form of thinking that reflects the essential features of one or more objects, on the basis of which judgments are built. Judgment is a form of thinking based on the affirmation or denial of any interconnections and laws of the surrounding world, as well as the objects in it. Inference is a form of thinking that allows an abstractly thinking person to make a logical conclusion based on one or more judgments. Usually they are divided into two groups - premises and a conclusion, which is derived from them.
In addition to abstract thinking, a person can learn the truth through perception and representation, but their level is often not enough. Abstraction makes it possible to expand consciousness and mentally go beyond reality.
Can everyone think abstractly?
Abstract thinking is characteristic of absolutely all people, without exception, but it can be developed to varying degrees. In a child, it begins to manifest itself when he says that a cloud in the sky is a cow or a dragon. Abstractions are everywhere, take at least the exact science of mathematics - the solution of any equations with unknowns is possible only if there is some degree of abstract thinking. A poet, in order for his poems to "catch" readers for the soul, must create vivid images, sometimes abstracted from real objects, but only subtly hinting at their individual qualities. Abstract people speak in the language of symbols and complex concepts, this process gives them maximum pleasure - they live by it.
