Evolution of human needs in changing civilizations
Part of : Επιθεώρηση κοινωνικών ερευνών ; Vol.19/20, 1974, pages 94-101
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94-101
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The theory presented in this study is that, as scienceand technology advance and the resulting affluencegenerates higher levels of satisfaction for man’sphysiological drives, our emphasis on sociopsychologicalneeds becomes greater and greater. The dataemployed to test this theory were of two types: one,macroanalytical or historical, and two, microanalyticalor semihistorical, the latter being the problemsand needs of New York’s «neediest» families. Atleast the data included here do support the theory.The numerous implications of these findings areobvious. Below are a few of them:1. We need a standardized and more precise andsystematic nomenclature of human needs in orderto study them more fruitfully.2. Our increasing affluence necessitates further researchinto the psychology and sociology of leisuretime.3. More meaningful education in this sector is alsonecessary.4. We must explore the exact relationship betweenfrustration and violence.5. Social planning in these areas is something thatcan no longer be postponed with impunity.6. The developing economies of the Third Worldwill generate new sociopsychological needs which,unless appropriate measures are taken, may resultin social unrest and even violence.7. Finally, the utopian plans of those who conceiveof purely economic solutions as sufficient panaceasare simplistic and ludicrous, as they reveal theiradvocates’ inability to understand the nature ofboth our physiological and sociopsychological needs.Unfortunately, although physical satiety is ofteneasy to achieve, there is no answer, for instance, tothis question: When does a man have enough power?For man’s sociopsychological needs are insatiable,boundless, unfathomable!
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