Maslows Theory of Human Motivation Essay example -- essays research p

In order to understand the man condition, one must front understand what it is that motivates humans. It follows that we must then look to the motivator, the straits. The human straits industrial plant in much(prenominal) a way as to make full a series of subscribe tos. Abraham H. Maslow&8217s theory of human motivation (1954) explains the sequence by which humans move through aims of concentration so as to go around satisfy these needs. Maslow&8217s 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 aspiration 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 ar 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 mec hanisms work to satisfy each echelon of needs, and further, how as all lesser needs be met, the individual(a) may refocus his/her concentration to ascend the hierarchy towards self-actualization.According to Maslow&8217s pyramid, the basest of human needs atomic number 18 physiological, in particular homeostasis and appetite. These necessities must be met before human consciousness can progress to the next level of concentration. Maslow&8217s theory gains support upon examining the breakdown of how the brain functions. Carter (1998) explains that the side(prenominal) and ventromedial hypothalamic nuclei are largely responsible for controlling when one feels hungry. While the lateral substance 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 genuine 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&8217s appetite becomes the primary motivator in one&8217s actions (Maslow 1954). When a human being&8217s use up lies at this level of the pyramid, it can be said that (s)he is concerned with more than primal matters, as opposed to the higher tiers when man&8217s claim of mind is focused on &8220higher thou... ...ch was the case with Vladimir Nabakov who claimed that different sounds, such as letters, each evoked disparate hues (Carter 1998). Realizing soulal potential in people like Vladimir may include creating works of art representing their unequalled 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 upwardly through the social class system. Utilizing the anterior cingulate cortex and f ocusing on one&8217s specific talents, is the way in which the civilized brain achieves self-actualization.As can be seen, human needs as dictate 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&8217s 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.