Abstract thinking is a cognitive process that allows us to think beyond observable information and deal with concepts, ideas, theories, and principles that are not physically present. It is considered a higher-order thinking skill, usually about ideas and principles that are often symbolic or hypothetical. Abstract thinking is a key trait in modern human behavior, which is believed to have developed between 50,000 and 100,000 years ago and is closely connected with the development of human language, which appears to both involve and facilitate abstract thinking.
Abstract thinking is usually defined alongside its opposite: concrete thinking. Concrete thinking is connected closely to objects and experiences that can be directly observed. Abstract thinking is a vital skill for personal development, enabling us to think beyond our immediate environment and beliefs and consider different perspectives. This allows individuals to make better decisions, be more receptive and open to change, and be more creative.
Abstract thinking skills are associated with high levels of intelligence and creativity. Abstract reasoning is a component of most intelligence tests. Skills such as mental object rotation, mathematics, higher-level language usage, and the application of concepts to particulars all require abstract reasoning skills.
Abstract thinking is used in a variety of everyday behaviors, including using metaphors and analogies, understanding relationships between verbal and nonverbal ideas, spatial reasoning and mentally manipulating and rotating objects, and complex reasoning such as using critical thinking, the scientific method, and other approaches to reasoning through problems.
Abstract thinking is also used when creating things, speaking figuratively, solving problems, understanding concepts, analyzing situations, forming theories, and putting things in perspective. Comedians are experts in abstract thinking, as they observe the world around them, detect incongruities, absurdities, and outrages, and build jokes out of the unexpected connections.
Finally, abstract thinking is a skill that can be developed and strengthened with practice. Activities such as brainstorming, mind mapping, and playing strategy games can help improve abstract thinking skills.
