The hierarchy of needs

Like Freud, Maslow (1908-70) argued that our own internal motivations are a central aspect of our personality. Unlike Freud Maslow was not a crusty old perv, who practised only on white middle class jews and linked all our ills to fixations with orifices.

In Maslow's view we are driven by a hierarchy of needs.

At the bottom our most basic needs are food, water, oxygen, rest, freedom from George Galloway etc. Until these are met, we cannot be motivated by anything else.

Next comes safety and comfort. So shelter, security, and perhaps that luxury goose feather duvet from Heal's all count at this level.

Then attachment needs. When Paul Simon sang he was a rock and an island he was wrong. (Yes that was a metaphor). Humans have a basic need to love and to be loved, and not in the pert nipple sense either.

Next comes self esteem - we want to be recognised as the fabulous people we tell ourselves we are in the mirror. I am not sure where Anya Hindmarch bags come in, maybe that is Maslow's point.

Now we seek harmony and beauty and order, almost like a naked revue.

Finally, we seek self-actualisation. This is a concept which means achieving our full potential. The drive to self-actualise is fundamental to human nature (Maslow argues) if our other needs have been met.

So, er, get on and self actualise if you aren't already. Or at least have a nice cup of tea so your other needs are being met.