According to Abraham Maslow, what is the most fundamental need that must be satisfied first?

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs is a psychological theory that categorizes human needs into a five-tier model, usually depicted as a pyramid. At the base of this pyramid are the most fundamental needs required for survival, which include physiological needs such as food, water, warmth, and rest. These needs are essential for basic physical survival, and until they are met, individuals are not likely to focus on higher-level needs such as safety, social belonging, esteem, or self-actualization.

The selection of physical survival as the most fundamental need is essential because it serves as the foundation upon which all other needs build. Only after these basic physiological needs are met can an individual then prioritize other aspects of their well-being, such as emotional security and social acceptance. As such, Maslow positioned physical survival at the base of his hierarchy, reflecting its crucial role in human motivation and development.