Oh, that's interesting! I typically go with exploring little micro-systems, then apply what I've learned from the micro-system to the larger system... it's all about constructing relationships between patterns. The J part largely comes in terms of the obsessive long-term planning and occasional attempts to alter systems, as well as a habit of keeping an "idealized system" in mind at all times (though I frequently update this mental model). I suppose I go in full P mode most of the time, taking J-side notes as to how I could apply the principles I've learned in a long-term xanatos gambit if I ever felt like it. It's kind of funny because when I'm observing I'll usually come off like a total airhead, and when I'm in application-mode I apparently seem shockingly cold and competent.
I'm big picture. All the time.
I was originally a computer science major, but dropped out as soon as I started taking programming classes. I understood everything just fine. I could construct the logical flowcharts demonstrating how everything would work and such. When it came to actually writing it, I was a mess. Too many crunchy details in syntax. I got so lost.
I took a few philosophy classes, and was so at home I didn't even take notes.
I don't get along with INTJs in general, though. Too cold (and, in my experience, arrogant), even though my lean is very heavy on the I, N, and T. I mean, I can figure out how to deal with them, but... I don't want to >_>
I can totally understand. My manager isn't cold or arrogant, but extremely stubborn and trolling. The thing is, he doesn't mean any harm by it. I don't think he realizes it most of the time. Intent is everything to me. If I know he means no harm, I can ignore it. Because I can ignore it, it never amounts to anything. Thus, we get along. Other people don't read behind his words, and can't talk to him ever without an argument.
Myers-Briggs typology =/ The Wikipedia article explains better than I can.
It's vaguely pseudo-scientific, but has just enough apparent validity to make discussion interesting.
It's the only psychological personality anything I put any stock in. It has plenty of history behind it, its descriptions aren't vague and arbitrary like others of its kind, and the results are incredibly consistent and reliable.