Consciously Thinking of the Nonconsciousness: Intuitive Formation Theories in the Light of God's Word

Abstract

There has been an explosion in the understanding of the mechanics of the human nonconscious mind. People are led primarily by nonconscious cognition—innate and formed patterns of thinking—that gives impressions, makes associations, and creates stories. These are what consciousness thinking follows, defends, relies on, and is inspired by. Intuition formation theories are a cluster of interrelated attempts to take this new understanding of the nonconsciousness and apply it to formation of skills, values, and worldview. They propose tactics for workplaces, classrooms, and institutions to form the thinking of their workers, learners, and members. As those who seek to form followers of Christ, there is much that seems inviting and useful about intuition formation theories. However, do they match up with Scripture’s view of both cognition and formation? If so, which parts of the theories would be useful for pastors, teachers, staff ministers, parents, mentors, and more to use? This thesis will explore intuition formation and propose a framework for formation that can be used in almost every part of ministry.