theory of mind

American  

[thee-uh-ree uhv mahynd, theer-ee] / ˈθi ə ri əv ˈmaɪnd, ˈθɪər i /

Or Theory of Mind

noun

Psychology, Philosophy.

1. the ability to interpret one’s own and other people’s mental and emotional states, understanding that each person has unique motives, perspectives, etc. ToM, TOM

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Etymology

Origin of theory of mind

First recorded in 1985–90

Example Sentences

They demonstrate sophisticated theory of mind, tracking what others know and don’t know.

From The Wall Street Journal

There's super interesting work in the organizational behavior space about how having more power makes you have less theory of mind for people who are lower status.

From Salon

Like a CEO has less theory of mind for their employees.

From Salon

Theory of mind — explain what that means.

From Salon

It's not entirely a trivial question, either and has interesting implications for canine intelligence, including the so-called theory of mind.

From Salon