Hierarchy Of Needs Dbq

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Since the beginning of civilization, man has always sought after wealth. The theory of wealth vs. happiness stands the test of time. The idea that the amount of wealth a man possesses correlates with his happiness is a common theory throughout many different countries. Although money cannot directly bring happiness, Maslow’s hierarchy of needs successfully supports the fact that there is a strong correlation between the amount of wealth that a human possesses and their level of happiness. The theory behind Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is that once a person satisfies their most basic, physiological needs, they will move higher up in the hierarchy, eventually reaching the last tier of self actualization. As David Myers states, “We need food, rest, shelter, social contact” (Source B). The way to acquire the most basic human needs is through currency. In the majority of countries throughout …show more content…

In Walden, Thoreau argues that “Most of the luxuries, and many of the so-called comforts of life, are not only not indispensable, but positive hinderances to the elevation of mankind” (Source F). In this quote, Thoreau states that there is a large difference between needs and wants. The physiological needs such as food and shelter are the necessities in life. It’s only when mankind finds the balance between needs and wants that one may be able to examine their inner riches. That mankind would finally be able to express its creativity. The inner potential that is present in the self-actualization tier. Money propels humanity through every tier of the hierarchy of needs, straight into the final need for enlightenment. With the fulfillment of all of the tiers of the hierarchy, comes the true happiness that Maslow’s studies sought after. It is evident that there is a correlation between wealth and happiness due to the propel that mankind receives from wealth to move through the hierarchy of

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