Journal Entry 4
Ricardo Corpus
06/03/2024
Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs makes a lot of sense when you think about how we use technology daily. Starting with physiological needs, while my phone and the internet aren’t as essential as food and water, they are important for staying connected and managing daily tasks. They help me keep track of schedules, communicate with others, and access important information. For safety needs, cybersecurity is crucial. For example, when my laptop gets a virus or there’s a data breach on a site I use, it’s like someone tampering with the lock on my door. Moving to belongingness and love needs, social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram help me stay connected with friends and family. These platforms are not just about posting updates but also about staying in the loop with what others are doing. Seeing updates from friends, sharing memes, and commenting on each other’s posts create a sense of community and keep relationships alive even when we can’t meet in person. It’s more about maintaining bonds and being part of each other’s lives in a casual, everyday manner. Regarding esteem needs, social media also plays a significant role. Positive feedback and engagement on my posts can be a nice boost, similar to getting recognition for something well done in real life. Engaging with others’ content and receiving thoughtful comments fosters a supportive environment. Even if there are negative comments, it’s all about keeping a level head and understanding that online interactions can be fleeting. Finally, for self-actualization, technology is a great enabler. I use online courses to learn new skills, watch tutorials to improve my hobbies, and join communities that share my interests. Technology provides the tools and resources to keep growing and achieving personal goals. For instance, using apps to track my fitness progress or participating in online challenges helps me stay motivated and strive for better health. Maslow’s hierarchy applies well to understanding how intertwined our digital and physical lives have become, and how technology meets various needs, from basic connectivity to personal growth.