Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Through the Lens of Technology: Connecting Human Experience to Digital Growth

Maslow’s Hierarchy

Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is a theory that identifies human needs broken down into a pyramid with five layers. The first two base layers are basic needs, physiological, and safety. Physiological needs, belongingness/love, and esteem make up the following two layers. Finally, self-fulfillment tops the pyramid by obtaining self-actualization. Personal experiences with technology can be identified by applying Maslow’s theory to my technological connections.

Basic Needs

Physiological needs are satisfied by having a functioning device connected to the internet. Safety needs are fulfilled by having a robust cybersecurity posture. This makes me feel safe from cyber threats and secure from unauthorized access.

Psychological Needs

Belongingness and love needs are met by online connections established through social media, video calls, and community websites.  Esteem needs are satisfied by people who share or “like” my comments. I also feel accomplished and prestigious by displaying earned accolades on my profile.

Self-fulfillment

Although I do not feel I have reached my full potential, technology offers educational courses and creative tools designed for people striving to achieve self-actualization.

Conclusion

Each tier in Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs shows progress toward a more meaningful life. Through the lens of technology, Maslow’s theory highlights the continuity of technology and the human experience. Technology can help us achieve basic and psychological needs while facilitating our reaching our full potential.