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Hierarchy of Needs
A concept originally conceived of by Maslow in 1943 in the context of his theory of human motivation. The theory assumes that human motivation is arranged in a hierarchy, such that needs that have the greatest urgency will dominate behavior. Needs, which range in order of importance, include essentials for life (physiological needs), economic and physical safety and well-being, belonging and intimacy, esteem and approval, and finally self actualization. Self-actualization is the instinctual need to fulfill one's cre ative, moral, and intellectual potential. Lower-order needs must be met before motivation can be dominated by the higher-order needs. As an individual moves upward in the hierarchy of needs, needs in the lower lev els will no longer be prioritized. However, if and when a lower set ...