In 1954, the American psychologist Abraham Maslow introduced what became known as the “Hierarchy of Needs,” which included physiological needs, safety, social belonging, self-esteem, and self-actualization. But today, in 2025, we are compelled to re-examine this framework. What are the true essential needs of a human being in our current age?

From my perspective, the basic needs of a person in today’s world have dramatically evolved. Foremost among these is the absolute dependency on the internet, digital technology, and the mobile phone—needs that have become as fundamental as water and air.

You may agree or disagree with me. But why has modern technology taken such deep-rooted control over the contemporary human mind?

The Evolution of Needs

Gradual growth in human awareness is a natural phenomenon. With the passage of time, human civilization has witnessed exponential technological development, aimed at making life easier. These advancements have significantly influenced human behaviour, reshaping priorities and redefining needs.

In recent decades—particularly in the United States—we've seen numerous small startups built on simple but innovative tech ideas transform their founders into billionaires. Take, for example, Elon Musk (Tesla), Jensen Huang (Nvidia), Mark Zuckerberg (Meta/Facebook), and Larry Ellison (Oracle). Their success stories have inspired a generation to view technology as a gateway to quick wealth and global impact.

This bright side of technology demonstrates its enormous potential, and there is no shame in pursuing such paths. However, the issue in the Arab world lies in the lack of supporting elements—education, investment, infrastructure—that enable young people to translate vision into sustainable success.

The Other Side of the Coin

Unfortunately, the misuse of technology has turned us from users into products. Instead of serving us, technology has, in some instances, started to control us—collecting our personal data, analysing our behaviour, and turning us into targeted profiles for advertising and profit.

So, is technology truly a basic need—or is it controlling us under the guise of serving us?

Let’s explore what experts agree on, and where opinions diverge:

Why Some Believe Technology Is Now a Basic Human Need:

1. Technology is a Means of Survival: social media, remote work, online education, digital banking, and even telemedicine now rely heavily on internet access. Without it, individuals face social and functional isolation. Example: During the COVID-19 pandemic, the internet was the only lifeline for communication, work, and even accessing basic services.

2. Redefining “Basic Needs”: Traditionally, food, shelter, and safety topped the list. Today, internet connectivity is equally critical—it enables access to all other needs, whether it’s ordering food, finding a place to live, or securing employment.

3. Technology Equals Power and Knowledge: Digital access determines one's ability to compete socially and economically. The digital divide continues to deepen inequality worldwide.

Why Others Disagree:

1. Digital Addiction Threatens Mental Health: Excessive screen time and dependence on mobile devices have caused reduced attention spans, social detachment, and increased rates of anxiety and depression. One moral question persists: Are we becoming slaves to our screens?

2. Technology is a Tool—Not a Need: Some argue that technology is an aid, not a necessity like air or water. While modern life is difficult without it, humans can technically survive without it.

3. Risk of Losing Independence: Complete reliance on digital systems makes people vulnerable—to cyberattacks, system failures, and data manipulation. Imagine a world without electricity or internet access for just 24 hours. The chaos would be unprecedented.

In Conclusion:

From my point of view, it all boils down to awareness and balance. Technology has undoubtedly reshaped our definition of "basic needs"—but the danger lies in letting it erode our humanity.

Perhaps the answer lies in:

• Acknowledging its importance while remaining aware of its risks.
• Educating future generations to use it wisely, rather than becoming controlled by it.
• Bridging the digital divide—ensuring no one is left behind, which is a collective responsibility of Arab governments, communities, and institutions to invest in a supportive ecosystem for tech innovation.

So, what do you think? Can we go back to a life without technology—or has it truly become the “digital oxygen” we can no longer live without?