Final answer:
The choice that is NOT part of Maslow's original hierarchy of needs is E. Transcendence needs. While Maslow later included self-transcendence above self-actualization, it was not present in the initial model.
Step-by-step explanation:
The level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs that is NOT a part of the original model as proposed by Abraham Maslow is E. Transcendence needs. Maslow's hierarchy originally included the following levels: Physiological needs, Safety needs, Love and belonging needs, Esteem needs, and Self-actualization at the top of the pyramid.
It was later in his life that Maslow proposed an additional level above self-actualization, which he called self-transcendence. This new level refers to the pursuit of meaning and purpose beyond oneself, such as making sacrifices for the benefit of others, as seen in examples like Mohandas K. Gandhi's hunger strikes for political protest.
Despite the revisions made by Maslow, when considering the original hierarchy of needs, transcendence needs were not included. Maslow's theory has faced criticisms regarding its subjective nature and for not fully accounting for all real-world phenomena. Nevertheless, it remains a significant concept in the study of motivation and psychology.