Is there a hierarchy of needs ?

One often wonders....It is indeed an amazing concept...

Maslow told us about the need-ladder....

It seems to be generally true....

Here is an excerpt (http://www.abraham-maslow.com/m_motivation/Hierarchy_of_Needs.asp)

The basis of Maslow's theory of motivation is that human beings are motivated by unsatisfied needs, and that certain lower needs need to be satisfied before higher needs can be addressed. Per the teachings of Abraham Maslow, there are general needs (physiological, safety, love, and esteem) which have to be fulfilled before a person is able to act unselfishly. These needs were dubbed "deficiency needs.

While a person is motivated to fulfill these basal desires, they continue to move toward growth, and eventually self-actualization. The satisfaction of these needs is quite healthy. while preventing their gratification makes us ill or act evilly."

As a result, for adequate workplace motivation, it is important that leadship understands which needs are active for individual employee motivation. In this regard, Abraham Maslow's model indicates that basic, low-level needs such as physiological requirements and safety must be satisfied before higher-level needs such as self-fulfillment are pursued. As depicted in this hierarchical diagram, sometimes called 'Maslow's Needs Pyramid' or 'Maslow's Needs Triangle', when a need is satisfied it no longer motivates and the next higher need takes its place.

Self-Actualization
Esteem Needs
Social Needs
Safety Needs
Physiological Needs 

Bottom line is...
 

Once the basic needs are satisfied....one strives for higher need fulfilment....

....and the ultimate goal for every human....in a way....is to strive for self actualization...

And self actualization is the manifestation of POSITIVE EGO !!!