Fundamental Needs

Definition

Fundamental needs are basic physiological and psychological requirements that humans must satisfy for survival and well-being. These needs serve as the foundation of motivation and drive human behavior.

Related terms

Homeostasis:

The body's natural tendency to maintain internal stability or balance by regulating various physiological processes.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: A theory that arranges fundamental needs into a hierarchical order, with physiological needs at the base (e.g., food, water) and higher-level needs (e.g., self-esteem, self-actualization) being pursued once lower-level needs are met.

Instincts:

Innate behavioral patterns that are biologically determined and activated in response to specific stimuli, helping individuals fulfill their fundamental needs.