Abraham Maslows’ hierarchy of needs has mixed with technology and my life in the following ways.
Physiological needs: In the most basic possible way, technology allows me access to the necessities of life I require to survive. For example, if I have to get food and water, I can use an app like Doordash or get my groceries delivered to me. Technology also allows me to pay my bills online in order to keep a roof over my head so I can have somewhere warm to rest.
Safety needs: In almost every important aspect of my life that requires sensitive information, whether it be bank information, my personal information that’s transferred at work every day or just the information on my phone, security measures are always taken in order to make sure my data is safe and secure. There are passwords that have to be entered and only authorized personnel is allowed access to my contact information.
Belongingness and love needs: This level is fulfilled almost only by social media. Texting, Facebook, Reddit, Snapchat, Whatsapp, Twitter and several other social media platforms allow me a means to communicate with friends and family in order to maintain a connection with them. Relationship apps like Tinder, Bumble, or others allow me to attempt to make a more intimate connection with someone else.
Esteem needs: This level can also be covered by apps on my mobile device. Achievements like getting a degree or travelling can give me the sense of accomplishments, but posting said accomplishments on social media like Instagram or Facebook are often met with congratulatory statements that affirm my achievements.
Self Actualization: For me personally, I can’t say I’ve even reached my full potential, let alone explain how technology has gotten me there. I can make a safe assumption that using technology to pursue my degree in Cybersecurity will be the gateway to reaching my full potential as my degree will allow me to hopefully find a good job that will allow me the freedom to pursue my creative activities. Until then that merely remains as speculation.