What is systemizers vs empathizers?

Systemizers and empathizers are two cognitive styles that were first identified by psychologist Simon Baron-Cohen. Systemizers are those individuals who tend to be analytical and logical thinkers who are more focused on understanding the rules and principles that govern a particular system or process. These are the people who have a natural inclination towards science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields.

On the other hand, empathizers are those individuals who tend to be more intuitive and emotionally oriented thinkers who focus on identifying and understanding emotions, thoughts, and feelings of others. These are the people who have a natural inclination towards caregiving professions such as nursing, therapy, and social work.

Baron-Cohen's research has suggested that while most people fall somewhere on a continuum between the two cognitive styles, males tend to be more systemizers while females tend to be more empathizers. Nonetheless, neither cognitive style is considered superior to the other, as both have their own unique strengths and weaknesses.