Final answer:
Maslow's hierarchy of needs prioritizes basic survival needs like food and water over self-actualization, which is the fulfillment of one's potential. Criticism of his theory includes its subjective nature and failure to account for altruistic behaviors that transcend basic needs. The hierarchy is still a cornerstone of humanistic psychology.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the hierarchy of needs, Maslow proclaimed that survival needs such as food and water are of higher priority and that self-actualization (developing one's full potential) is of lesser priority. Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs starts with the most basic physiological needs for survival at the base, such as food, water, and shelter. Only when these basic needs are met, can people move up the pyramid to fulfill higher-level needs such as safety, love and belonging, esteem, and ultimately self-actualization. At the top of the pyramid, self-actualization represents the fulfillment of personal potential, which is a life-long process and considered to be achieved by only a small percentage of people. Additionally, Maslow later included a level above self-actualization known as self-transcendence, which is the striving for meaning and purpose beyond oneself.
Despite its widespread recognition, Maslow's theory has faced criticism for its subjective nature and inability to account for situations where people transcend basic needs in pursuit of higher-level motives, such as acts of self-sacrifice for political or altruistic reasons. Nonetheless, Maslow's hierarchy of needs remains a foundational concept in humanistic psychology, reflecting an emphasis on the positive potential and personal growth inherent within all humans.