Fundamental Human Needs – Max Neef

Max-Neef and his colleagues have developed a taxonomy of human needs and a process by which communities can identify their “wealths” and “poverties” according to how these needs are satisfied.


Fundamental
Human Needs

Being
(qualities)

Having

(things)

Doing
(actions)

Interacting
(settings)

subsistence

physical and
mental health

food, shelter
work

feed, clothe,
rest, work

living environment,
social setting

protection

care,
adaptability
autonomy

social security,
health systems,
work

co-operate,
plan, take care
of, help

social environment,
dwelling

affection

respect, sense
of humour,
generosity,
sensuality

friendships,
family,
relationships
with nature

share, take care of,
make love, express

emotions

privacy,
intimate spaces
of togetherness

understanding

critical
capacity,
curiosity, intuition

literature,
teachers, policies
educational

analyse, study,meditate
investigate,

schools, families
universities,
communities,

participation

receptiveness,
dedication,
sense of humour

responsibilities,
duties, work,
rights

cooperate,
dissent, express
opinions

associations,
parties, churches,
neighbourhoods

leisure

imagination,

tranquility
spontaneity

games, parties,
peace of mind

day-dream,
remember,

relax, have fun

landscapes,
intimate spaces,
places to be alone

creation

imagination,
boldness,
inventiveness,
curiosity

abilities, skills,
work,

techniques

invent, build,
design, work,
compose,
interpret

spaces for

expression,
workshops,
audiences

identity

sense of

belonging, self-
esteem,
consistency

language,
religions, work,
customs,

values, norms

get to know
oneself, grow,
commit oneself

places one
belongs to,

everyday
settings

freedom

autonomy,
passion, self-esteem,

open-mindedness

equal rights

dissent, choose,
run risks, develop
awareness

anywhere