What is the foundation of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs?

The foundation of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs is physiological needs. This concept emphasizes that certain basic needs must be met before individuals can focus on higher-level needs. Physiological needs include essential requirements for human survival such as air, food, water, shelter, and sleep. According to Maslow, these needs are the most fundamental, and without their satisfaction, a person is unlikely to experience or pursue higher-level needs such as safety, love, esteem, and ultimately, self-actualization. This foundational layer underpins all subsequent levels in the hierarchy, making it conceptually critical to understanding human motivation and behavior within the framework of Maslow's theory.