It’s interesting to look at Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in the light of how modern technology has changed our relationship with these given needs. These days many of our physiological needs can be obtained easily through online interactions. We can order groceries and clothing and pay rent online. One corollary to this however is that blue light emitted from digital devices makes it harder for humans to fall asleep at night. As for our safety needs, technology often makes people feel less safe, for instance in the case of cyberbullying social media keeps a victim in reach of their harassers at all times. However, the internet also allows people to seek employment and contact doctors more easily and conveniently. Social media such as Facebook allows people to connect with friends, family, and acquaintances no matter where they are, and wholly digital communities on platforms such as Discord and Reddit allow people to find a sense of belonging entirely online. Online dating has also vastly changed our relationship with romance. Many people in our modern age have tied their self-esteem to how well they perform on social media, putting their self-worth in direct thrall to likes, follower counts, and the whims of algorithms. Ultimately, the internet has also allowed many people to seek out and find success with their passions, in what I view as a type of self-actualization. All in all, the internet and social media has had a profound effect on how we pursue the different needs laid out by Maslow.