Extroverted Metaphysics (Me), as outlined in the conceptualization of the metaphysics function, represents an orientation toward reality as a dynamic, ever-shifting process of becoming. Exemplified by philosophical traditions like those of Heraclitus and Buddhism, Me perceives the world as a ceaseless flow of interdependent phenomena, devoid of fixed essences or unchanging substances. This cognitive function, distinct from the more immediate and concrete operations of sensation, intuition, thinking, and feeling, shapes a person’s worldview in profound and abstract ways. Because it engages with the fundamental nature of existence rather than its surface-level manifestations, Me fosters a comprehensive perspective that transcends everyday concerns, influencing how individuals interpret meaning, navigate change, and relate to the world around them.
At its core, Me attunes a person to the impermanence of all things. Heraclitus’ doctrine of panta rhei—all things flow—captures this essence, suggesting that reality is never static but always in motion. Similarly, the Buddhist concept of Shunyata, or emptiness, emphasizes that nothing possesses an inherent, independent existence; everything arises and dissolves in relation to other phenomena. For someone with strongly developed Me, this recognition becomes a lens through which they view the world. They see life not as a collection of solid, enduring entities—people, objects, or ideas—but as a web of transient events and relationships. A tree, for instance, is not merely a fixed thing but a process involving sunlight, soil, water, and time, constantly shifting and eventually decaying. This perspective extends to personal identity as well: the self is not a permanent core but a fluid construct shaped by experiences, interactions, and contexts.