Maslow's mistake, human contact and nature

We all know the famous Pyramid of Abraham Maslow (1928-1970), in which physical needs, such as food and shelter, are at the base. Above that comes Security and security of existence, and only then the need for social contact and love. At the top you will find self-esteem and self-actualization through peak experiences.

Maar Maslow heeft zich vergist, zegt neurowetenschapper Matthew Liebermann in zijn boek : “Social, Why Our Brains Are Wired To Connect “. Through many studies, he claims that it has been shown that social connectedness is the primary necessity of life for humans and animals. It is based on physical needs rather than physical needs.

Liebermann emphasizes that our brain has evolved to seek social interaction and connectedness, as this is crucial to our physical constitution and well-being. Especially in the corona era, we have been able to see that lack of human contact has led to disastrous consequences.

However, Maslow has also made many good statements in which we recognize ourselves. According to Maslow, immersion in the wilderness can help us achieve peak experiences. These experiences are moments when we feel completely at one with the environment, in which time seems to fade and we experience a deep sense of satisfaction and meaning.

By exploring the natural environment and detaching ourselves from everyday worries, we can experience a deeper connection with ourselves and the world around us. The sound of the birds, the smell of the flowers, the touch of the wind; all this can bring us into a state of Wonder and awe. And in silence we come to new insights.

Have you ever had such an experience?

Boy Van Droffelaar, PhD