Chapter 10: Problem 6

(a) According to Maslow, a vast hunger for power is unlikely ever to be satisfied because it is actually an unconscious substitute for such fundamental needs as love or esteem. Do you agree or disagree? Why? (b) By classifying self-actualization as the highest need (and thus the last to emerge), Maslow takes the position that discovering and fulfilling your true potentials is extremely difficult. Do you agree or disagree? Why?

Short Answer

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As personal beliefs may vary greatly, there isn't a short concise answer for these questions. However, personally reflection and experiences would serve as the base for your answer.

Step by step solution

Understanding Maslow's hierarchy of needs

The first part requires understanding Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs which pinpoints human needs starting from the most basic, such as physiological needs for food and water, to highest needs such as self-actualization. Maslow proposed that until lower order needs are satisfied, individuals do not contemplate or give importance to higher order needs.

Analyzing the power hunger as a substitute for love and esteem

The next step includes linking this understanding to the opinion statement given: 'A vast hunger for power is unlikely to be satisfied as it is an unconscious substitute for basic needs like love or esteem.' This demands reflection on personal observation and understanding if power desire typically masks more fundamental needs. An answer may be formulated based on personal understanding and experiences.

Self-actualization as the most difficult need to fulfill

Next comes the reflection on the second opinion: 'Self-actualization, being the highest need, is thus the last to emerge and makes the process of understanding and fulfilling true potentials extremely difficult.' This would again require contemplating upon personal experiences, understanding if individuals typically struggle to recognize and act upon their true potential until their other more basic needs are satisfied.

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Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding Maslow's hierarchy of needs

Analyzing the power hunger as a substitute for love and esteem

Self-actualization as the most difficult need to fulfill

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