Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs in the Digital Age

Do you remember Abraham Maslow's theory on hierarchy of human needs? Well, how can we forget that pyramid with the five levels that most of us were asked at every interview during placements? To refresh our memory, let us look at the Pyramid again but this time from a very new and digitized perspective.

Maslow proposed this theory in the mid 20th century and a lot has changed since then. Let us parallel this with examples from the contemporary era. At the base of the triangle is our very basic physiological needs, and as we move up, we encounter safety, love/belonging, esteem needs, and self-actualization.

1.     Physiological needs: Starting from the bottom, we have physiological needs, which include food, water, shelter, and sleep. In our modern context, think about food delivery apps like Swiggy, Zomato or Uber Eats. They provide convenient access to food, ensuring our basic need for nourishment is met with just a few taps on our smartphones.

2.     Safety Needs: Moving up the pyramid, the second level is the safety needs. These include personal security, financial stability, health, and well-being. In our modern world, where does safety fit in? In the age of the Internet, we have expanded our safety concerns to include cybersecurity, protecting our personal information, and ensuring our digital identities remain secure. We have passwords, two-factor authentication, and even VPNs to keep our online lives protected. Additionally, with digital banking and investment platforms, people can manage their finances securely from anywhere in the world. Health-tracking apps and wearable devices help us monitor our well-being.

3.     Love and Belonging: These needs are all about relationships, friendship, intimacy, and a sense of connection. But how do we find this in the digital era? Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Linkedln and dating apps provide avenues for connecting with others, forming friendships, and finding like-minded communities. Virtual hangouts and online gaming communities also offer spaces for social interaction, even when physically apart.

4.     Self Esteem Needs: This level encompasses self-esteem, confidence, achievement, and respect from others. How does this relate to our present-day life? In the digital age, with platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and other platforms anyone can showcase their talents, share their knowledge, and receive recognition from global audiences. Online courses and educational platforms offer opportunities for skill development and personal growth, fostering a sense of accomplishment.

5.     Self-Actualization: Finally, at the top of the pyramid, we have self-actualization, which involves realizing our full potential, personal growth and achieving our dreams. In today's world, with the Internet at our fingertips, we have an abundance of resources to explore and learn from. We can take online courses, watch TED Talks and podcasts. Remote work and freelancing opportunities enable individuals to design lifestyles that align with their passions and values.

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Published by: Sayani Sen

Published in: LinkedIn