Maslow's Theory of Human Motivation

In order to understand the human condition, one must first understand what it is that motivates humans. It follows that we must then look to the motivator, the brain. The human brain works in such a way as to satisfy a series of needs. Abraham H. Maslow’s theory of human motivation (1954) explains the sequence by which humans move through levels of concentration so as to best satisfy these needs. Maslow’s pyramid (1954), a five-tiered structure, represents a summary of this theory. Maslow (1954) postulates that in order for one to focus his/her attention on the ultimate goal at the apex of the pyramid, self-actualization, one must first fulfill the needs at the subordinate levels. At the lowest level of the chart are the physiological needs, followed by the need for safety, the belongingness and love needs, the esteem needs, and finally culminating in self-actualization. This paper will demonstrate how various brain mechanisms work to satisfy each echelon of needs, and further, how as all lesser needs are met, the individual may refocus his/her concentration to ascend the hierarchy towards self-actualization.

According to Maslow’s pyramid, the basest of human needs are physiological, in particular homeostasis and appetite. These necessities must be met before human consciousness can progress to the next level of concentration. Maslow’s theory gains support upon examining the breakdown of how the brain functions. Carter (1998) explains that the lateral and ventromedial hypothalamic nuclei are largely responsible for controlling when one feels hungry. While the lateral nucleus is responsible for detecting declining blood glucose levels, the ventromedial senses rising glucose levels. Thus, the lateral nucleus signals hunger while the ventromedial signals fullness. These nuclei are therefore responsible for making sure that the human body has the proper amount of fuel and nutrients. While these functions are not controlled by the conscious mind, in cases of extreme hunger the need to sate one’s appetite becomes the primary motivator in one’s actions (Maslow 1954). When a human being’s concern lies at this level of the pyramid, it can be said that (s)he is concerned with more primal matters, as opposed to the higher tiers when man’s state of mind is focused on “higher thou...

... middle of paper ...

...ch was the case with Vladimir Nabakov who claimed that different sounds, such as letters, each evoked disparate hues (Carter 1998). Realizing personal potential in people like Vladimir may include creating works of art representing their unique experiences, while people not born with this condition will self-actualize in other ways, such as business. The underlying theme is that each person has a distinctly different ability to help him/her move upwards through the social class system. Utilizing the anterior cingulate cortex and focusing on one’s specific talents, is the way in which the civilized brain achieves self-actualization.

As can be seen, human needs as dictated by the brain follow a distinct pecking order. Although human wants and desires are fulfilled in far more complex manners than a simple level-to-level ascension, Maslow’s pyramid provides a clearer understanding of the basic processes by which the human brain discerns what the conciousness should be most occupied with. Further, once the brain focuses on the object of desire, it may work in such as way as to satisfy that desire and thus ensure that the human being is prosperous and well-adjusted.