This is essentially a combination of the two thinking styles discussed above. This type of thinking tends to view the world on terms of larger concepts and situations, and it is prone to theoretical considerations. However, this form of thinking also makes use of logic and reason to organize the concepts, generalizations and abstract thoughts. This style makes it easy for these thinkers to "… zoom in on what's important, such as key points and significant details. Their thinking processes are logical, rational and intellectual" (Four Types Of Thinking Style, para. 8)
5. Workplace examples
The most common workplace example of rational and sequential thinking in an organization or business is inventory or stock taking. The decision to buy more stock is a result of a logical and rational analysis of the amount of stock outstanding and the amount needed to ensure that future orders or customer needs are met. This is a simple process of organizing information using a thought process or style that is objective and rational and which is obviously related to the first category of concrete sequential thinking discussed above.
However, if some of the stock has been stolen then other thinking style may be needed to deal with the problem. The logical and rational sequential mode of thought can also be used to determine facts -- such as who was in the shop at the time of the theft and other logical details that might lead to a solution to the problem.
At the same time more abstract and intuitive methods of thought might also be used. The manager might use random abstract thought to create a larger picture of the situation in order to determine who might be the most likely suspect to steal from the store. This might, for example, involve abstracting certain personal qualities of the staff and relating them to past misdemeanors and offences. In other words, the abstract style of thought might help...
Random abstract thinking might be used at an intuitive level to gauge the subjective feelings of other members of the staff as to the possible culprit. However, these emotions and feelings should be weighed up against the rational and logical mode of thought so as to avoid accusing one individual on the basis of feelings or emotions alone.
In conclusion, as has been suggested from the above analysis, very often these three different types of thinking can be used in conjunction to deal with a certain problem or question. In other words, different thinking styles are not necessarily mutually exclusive and can be used interactively. At the same time it is important to realize that different individuals have different thinking predilections and styles that suit their personality and brain structure. Those who are more left-brained will tend to feel more comfortable with logical and rational thinking style, while a right- brained person will usually be more inclined towards holistic and abstract forms of thinking.
References
CS:Concrete Sequential. Retrieved July 30, 2009, from http://www.cgribben.com/psych/cs.html
Four Types Of Thinking Style. Retrieved July 30, 2009, from http://lrobertson.files.wordpress.com/2007/09/wk-2-four-types-of-thinking-style.doc
Learning Styles. 'Gregoric Learning Styles', section 5. Retrieved July 30, 2009, from http://www.ware.k12.ga.us/superintendent/08-09%20Goal%20Presentations/Curriculum/Learning%20Styles.pdf
UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT THINKING STYLES. Retrieved July 30, 2009, from http://www.humanlinks.com/orgsn/thinking_styles.htm
