Final answer:
Societies fulfill basic and higher-order needs through a mix of economic systems, social services, and cultural practices that vary worldwide. They must answer economic questions regarding what, how, and for whom to produce to ensure all members can achieve well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
Society meets its basic needs such as food, water, shelter, clothing, and healthcare through a combination of individual effort, community support, economic systems, and social services. To acquire higher-order needs like education, safety, and emotional well-being, societies utilize structures such as educational institutions, law enforcement agencies, and social networks. The way these needs are met can vary widely across different cultures and countries, reflecting diverse environmental conditions, economic systems, and social norms.
For instance, food and water may be obtained through agriculture and water systems, respectively. Shelter can vary from homes on stilts in flood-prone areas to cliff-side dwellings in mountainous regions. Clothing and healthcare are provided by industries that have evolved to supply these necessities efficiently.
Societies answer three economic questions to address these needs: what to produce, how to produce it, and for whom to produce it. These decisions shape economies and are informed by cultural values and social priorities. The underlying goal is to ensure that all members of society can access these fundamental requirements for a productive and satisfactory life.