Needless, yet needed.

Maslownian Hierarchy of Needs.

Physiological - This is most basic of all needs, and translates roughly into food, water and shelter. It should be noted that food should be considered as a balanced diet, clean drinking water and adequate shelter. Once this need has been satisfied, it progresses onto security.

Security - In this stage, the person's needs are that of physical and mental (though this is debated) security. That is, the person needs to feel safe from physical and mental harm. Once this is achieved, the person then progresses onto Belonging.

Belonging - Also known as the love stage - This stage, the persons requirements are that he/she feels that they belong somewhere, to a group, if need be. Attitudes and identities need to be consistent. People in this stage often feel the need to label themselves, and others around them. When people feel that they belong somewhere in society, they tend to progress to esteem.

Esteem - Esteem relates to both self-esteem and esteem recieved from others. In this stage, people need to have both self-confidence and self-respect for themselves, and have their opinions/values/beliefs respected by others. Once a sufficient level of esteem has been reached, the person progresses onto self-actualisation.

Self-actualisation - Once a person reaches this stage, he/she is considered to be self-actualised. This means that he/she has achieved their maximum potential possible as a person. Thinking and logic processes tend to refined and accurate, opinions and values are highly developed. These people often are considered intellectuals by others, and frequently pursue intellectual careers.