What thought processes motivated McDonnell in the creation of this aircraft?
The same thing that motivated the US and Canadian Air Forces to purchase 807 of them. During the 1950s when the Voodoo was developed there was a growing belief that air-to-air missiles would negate the need for turning dog fights. Many designs therefore concentrated on climb and speed performance at the expense of turning capability.
McDonnell F-101 Voodoo*Interceptor / Reconnaissance Aircraft - History, Specs and Pictures - Military Aircraft