The hierarchy of needs empirical examination of Maslow’s theory and lessons for development

Abstract

Maslow’s needs theory proposes a hierarchy of needs and argues for their sequential satisfaction. The theory has been very influential in development studies, in the establishment of development priorities, in the design of policies and social programs, and in the role economic growth plays as central development instrument. This paper relies on a large and representative database from Mexico to empirically test four assumptions which are commonly associated to Maslow’s theory: that needs are satisfied sequentially, that income is a relevant resource in the satisfaction of relevant needs, that the hierarchy of needs is associated to their well-being contribution, and that Maslow’s proposed sequential path in the satisfaction of needs -beginning with the satisfaction of physiological ones and ending with the satisfaction of self-actualization ones- is the best possible one. Data on satisfaction of needs is used to address the first two assumptions, while a subjective well-being approach is used to deal with the last two assumptions. The four assumptions are rejected. In consequence, it is possible to think about strategies in the satisfaction of needs that do not follow the sequential satisfaction proposed by Maslow and which question the hierarchical order he proposed. The paper highlights the relevance of the needs of love and belonging and of esteem, and it argues for an integrated view of human beings and of their needs, as well as for following a balanced strategy in their satisfaction. Implications for development studies and for the design of sustainable development strategies and social programs are discussed.