Thomas Jefferson: personality/temperament profile

 Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and the principal author of the Declaration of Independence, was a complex historical figure with many notable traits and some flaws. Let's explore his psychological profile based on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) scales.

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Traits and Characteristics of Thomas Jefferson:

Positive Traits:

• Intellectual and Rational: Jefferson was a polymath, deeply interested in science, philosophy, law, and architecture.
• Idealistic and Visionary: Advocated for democracy, individual rights, and religious freedom.
• Reserved and Private: He was known to be introverted and careful with his emotions.
• Diplomatic and Persuasive: A skilled writer and negotiator.
• Diligent and Hardworking: Managed Monticello, served in various government roles, and contributed to education (founded the University of Virginia).

Flaws and Vices:

• Contradictory Nature: Advocated for liberty and equality while owning enslaved people.
• Avoidant of Conflict: Often preferred to work behind the scenes rather than engage in direct confrontation.
• Financially Irresponsible: Amassed significant debt despite his wealth.
• Secretive: Avoided public scrutiny about certain parts of his personal and political life.
• Possibly Depressive Tendencies: Had periods of deep melancholy, particularly after personal losses.

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MMPI Scale Predictions:

The MMPI (Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory) measures various psychological dimensions. Below is an estimate of how Jefferson might have scored:

MMPI Scale	Predicted Score	Explanation
Hypochondriasis (Hs)	Low	No major evidence of excessive health anxiety.
Depression (D)	Moderate to High	Known for melancholic periods, especially after personal losses.
Hysteria (Hy)	Low	Not known to be emotionally reactive or prone to exaggerated stress responses.
Psychopathic Deviate (Pd)	Moderate	His secretive tendencies and willingness to bend rules (e.g., financial irresponsibility) suggest some deviation from norms.
Masculinity-Femininity (Mf)	Moderate to High	Cultivated interests in arts, philosophy, and literature, which were not traditionally "masculine" in his time.
Paranoia (Pa)	Moderate	He distrusted centralized power and had strong political enemies, which may indicate some level of suspicion.
Psychasthenia (Pt)	Moderate	His meticulous, perfectionist nature suggests a tendency toward anxiety and obsessive thoughts.
Schizophrenia (Sc)	Low to Moderate	His deep introspection and preference for solitude may suggest mild traits but not a clinical issue.
Hypomania (Ma)	Moderate	He was highly energetic intellectually but generally composed and reserved.
Social Introversion (Si)	High	Jefferson was known to be private, introverted, and preferred written communication over direct confrontation.

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Summary of Jefferson’s MMPI Profile:

• Likely an introverted, intellectual thinker with melancholic tendencies.
• Highly idealistic and visionary, but secretive and avoidant of conflict.
• May have had moderate anxiety and perfectionistic tendencies.
• Scored low on hysteria and hypomania, indicating a composed and rational demeanor.

Jefferson was a brilliant but complicated historical figure, balancing great intellectual achievements with personal contradictions. His MMPI profile suggests he was prone to introspection, anxiety, and depression, but also highly rational, visionary, and diplomatic.

In addition:

Thomas Jefferson, one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, is often characterized by a complex personality that reflects both his intellectual pursuits and his pragmatic governance.

Personality Traits

Jefferson was known for his intelligence, curiosity, and strong ideals about liberty and democracy. He was a visionary thinker, often described as principled yet pragmatic. His love for learning and the arts, along with his deep appreciation for nature, showcased a sensitive and reflective side. However, he also demonstrated traits of being somewhat aloof and reserved in social situations, which could lead to perceptions of him as socially awkward at times.

Jungian Archetypes

Jefferson can be primarily associated with the Sage archetype, characterized by wisdom, knowledge, and a quest for truth. He also embodies elements of the Rebel, as he challenged the status quo and advocated for independence and individual rights.

Tarot cards that could symbolize different aspects of Thomas Jefferson's life and personality:

1. The Emperor - This card represents authority, structure, and leadership. Jefferson's role as President and his influence on the nation's early development align well with this card.

2. The Hierophant - Symbolizing tradition, education, and spiritual guidance, this card reflects Jefferson's commitment to education and his role in shaping American values and institutions.

3. The Lovers - This card can represent significant relationships and choices. Jefferson's complex relationship with Sally Hemings and his marriage to Martha Wayles Skelton are key aspects of his personal life.

4. The Wheel of Fortune - Reflecting change and cycles, this card can symbolize Jefferson's involvement in the Louisiana Purchase, a pivotal event that changed the course of American history.

5. The Hermit - Representing introspection and wisdom, this card aligns with Jefferson's intellectual pursuits and his time spent in solitude at Monticello.

6. The Star - Symbolizing hope, inspiration, and enlightenment, this card reflects Jefferson's role in the American Enlightenment and his vision for the future of the United States.

7. The World - This card represents completion and accomplishment. Jefferson's extensive contributions to the founding and development of the United States fit well with this card.

8. King of Swords - Representing intellectual power and clear thinking, this card embodies Jefferson's sharp mind and his role as a statesman and thinker.

9. Knight of Pentacles - Symbolizing hard work and dedication, this card reflects Jefferson's commitment to agriculture and his efforts at Monticello.

10. Eight of Pentacles - Representing craftsmanship and skill, this card aligns with Jefferson's architectural achievements and his hands-on approach to various projects.

These cards together provide a comprehensive view of Thomas Jefferson's life, capturing his leadership, intellectual pursuits, personal relationships, and significant achievements.

Myers-Briggs Type

Jefferson is often classified as an INTJ (Introverted, Intuitive, Thinking, Judging). This type is known for being strategic, independent, and often visionary.

• Myers-Briggs 2 Letter Types: NT (Intuitive-Thinking)

Enneagram Types

Jefferson can be identified as a Type 5 (The Investigator), which is characterized by a desire for knowledge, understanding, and a tendency to withdraw from social interactions to focus on intellectual pursuits.

New Personality Self-Portrait Styles

Jefferson’s styles include:

• Conscientious: He was meticulous in his work and writings.
• Self-confident: He had a strong belief in his ideas and principles.
• Devoted: He was dedicated to his vision for America.
• Sensitive: His appreciation for art and culture reflects sensitivity.
• Solitary: He often preferred solitude for reflection and study.

Temperament Type

Jefferson's temperament can be described as a blend of Melancholic (thoughtful, reflective) and Choleric (goal-oriented, driven).

Possible Personality Disorders

While there are no clear indications of personality disorders, his intense focus on ideals and occasional social withdrawal could suggest tendencies towards obsessive-compulsive traits.

Hierarchy of Basic Desires

1. Knowledge
2. Independence
3. Influence

Hierarchy of Basic Values

1. Liberty
2. Justice
3. Education

Hierarchy of Basic Ideals

1. Enlightenment
2. Democracy
3. Individual Rights

Character Weaknesses or Flaws

Jefferson's idealism sometimes led to contradictions in his actions, particularly regarding slavery, where his personal beliefs clashed with societal norms.

Possible Neurotic Defense Mechanisms

• Rationalization: He often justified his actions and beliefs, especially regarding slavery.
• Repression: He may have repressed feelings about the moral implications of his actions.

Possible Trance States

Given his reflective nature, he may have experienced trance states during deep contemplation or while engaging with his writings.

Big Five Personality Dimensions

1. Openness: High (curiosity and appreciation for art)
2. Conscientiousness: High (meticulous in his work)
3. Extraversion: Low (introverted and reserved)
4. Agreeableness: Moderate (principled but could be contentious)
5. Neuroticism: Low (generally stable but could exhibit obsessive traits)

Main NLP Meta-Programs

• Toward/Away From: Primarily "Toward," focusing on goals and ideals.
• Options/Procedures: "Options," as he valued innovative thinking.
• Internal/External Frame of Reference: "Internal," relying on his own beliefs and values.

Relationship Matches

A good relationship match for Jefferson would be someone who is also intellectual and values independence, such as an INTP or INFJ. A bad match might be someone overly emotional or dependent, such as an ESFJ.

Famous Relationship Matches

A good match for Jefferson could be someone like Benjamin Franklin, who shared similar values of enlightenment and independence. A less compatible match might be someone like King George III, whose values and approach to governance were in stark contrast to Jefferson’s ideals.

Story Ideas for Leslie

1. The Enlightened Rebel: Leslie, a brilliant inventor in a dystopian society, uses her knowledge to challenge the oppressive regime, drawing parallels to Jefferson's revolutionary spirit.
2. The Solitary Scholar: Leslie, a reclusive historian, discovers a hidden manuscript that could change the understanding of her country's founding principles, leading her on a quest for truth.
3. The Idealist's Dilemma: Set in a modern political landscape, Leslie grapples with her ideals versus the realities of governance, reflecting Jefferson's internal conflicts.

These insights into Thomas Jefferson's personality highlight the complexity of his character and the enduring impact of his ideals on American history.

Sources

1 The Sourcebook of Magic by L. Michael Hall Ph.D. and Barbara Belnap M.S.W.

2 Personality Plus Revised and Expanded Edition by Florence Littauer

3 New Personality Self-Portrait by John M. Oldham, M.D. and Lois B. Morris

4 Jungian Archetypes by Robin Robertson

5 Personality Puzzle by Florence Littauer and Marita Littauer

6 Personality Plus by Florence Littauer