Assessing Maslows Pyramid From A Brain-based Perspective

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needs are physiological, in particular homeostasis and appetite. These necessities must be met before human consciousness can progress to the next level of concentration. Maslow’s theory gains support upon examining the breakdown of how the brain functions. Carter (1998) explains that the lateral and ventromedial hypothalamic nuclei are largely responsible for controlling when one feels hungry. While the lateral nucleus 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 sure 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’s appetite becomes the primary motivator in one’s actions (Maslow 1954). When a human being’s concern lies at this ...

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to induce the euphoria one feels in the initial stages of love (Carter 1998 ). Oxytocin, which has been associated with the feeling of relaxation that results from orgasm (Carter 1998) and which is also released during the terminal stages of childbirth (Carter 1998), creates a “warm, floaty, loving feeling that encourages pair bonding” (Carter, 1998, 76). In intimate relationships such as those shared by sexual partners and by mother and child, it is necessary to create a feeling of love and belonging. The brain works to ensure that this occurs via the use of these chemicals.
In the event that one resides in a civilized society (i.e., one in which all subordinate needs ...

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