I do not have a copy of the Theory of Human Motivation so I cannot say what it is exactly you are reading but I would think the word is egotistical. Of course, Maslow was not an English master so , who knows?? In any case, you need not aplogize. You know how I am!! HA!!!!!!!!!!!

I get that you feel a sense of belonging when surrounded by those of your own. That would make sense. I believe there is something in Maslow's writing about social needs?  It would follow that you would feel that way. I guess what I am driving at is the whole "being great" thing that started this conversation. I am always perplexed by those that feel man, himself is incapable of being great and , therefore, it is the result of some deity or supernatural being dabbling in creation. I get this argument most often from the religious folks, which is why I prefaced my comments to Joe. I do not wish to offend.

You see, I believe that man is ALWAYS the master, even in his weakest and most abandonded state. But in a weakened or degraded state, he becomes the foolish master that mismanages his mind. When he begins to reflect upon his condition and search diligently for the Law upon which his being is established, he becomes the wise master and directs his energies with intelligence, fashioning his thought to fruitful issues. My dear, only by searching and mining are gold and diamonds obtained. 

Oh and guido......Moo.

  [Show/Hide Quoted Message] (Quoting Message by Bev from Thursday, September 10, 2009 10:57:19 AM)

		Bev wrote:
		The soup can wait - lol I'm sorry.  Did I use the term incorrectly?  In the hierarchy of needs one moves from a self-centered (egoic) focus to one of self-awareness ultimately leading to outward focus.  But I think I understand your point. I am of the thinking that I am a better, richer, individual when I am in the midst of caring, likeminded people - when we all connect, we are a stronger force.      Deep Freeze wrote:   Umm...egoic?? HA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Sorry, Bev. You know I cannot resist!!  Interesting thoughts, though. As a matter of physics, I suppose we ARE actually all "connected". Had not actually considered that angle. Also interesting that you would reference Maslow. Needs are basic in everyone, just at varying levels. I suppose becoming self-aware helps in that one will realize that there is more to one's life than self alone. For me, the whole thing boils down to mind and the power thereof. I mean, scientists are only beginning to explore the vast powers of the mind. They have only scratched the surface of what we are capable of doing with our minds. The fact is, there is tremendous power there. I have discussed this often.  Thought and character are one, and as character can only manifest itself through environment and circumstance, the outer conditions of a person's life can always be found to be harmoniously related to his INNER state. Now, this does not mean that a certain circumstance is an indication of entire character but, by and large, circumstance is intimately connected with some vital thought element within us. Basically, everyone is where he is by the law of his being.      Bev wrote:   I found a way to include the sacred cow in my prose; however, said cow will be cast aside as will the religious dogma to which some subsribe so vehemently! It is true, we are all connected, scientifically and spiritually.  There is no new matter.  There are only new combinations of the same matter from which the universe was created.  So logically we are connected, similar.  As spiritual beings we are also connected.  Life's journey involves moving through the stages of ego (think Maslow's Hierarchy) to a higher self-awareness.  Being the optimist I can be at times I tend to believe we go a little further. Once the ego is quelled we can then move toward those in our midst not unlike how we were living in an egoic state.  In that regard we very much connect to one another, and ultimately the life energy that sustains us. When we shut ourselves off from any interaction or closeness with another what then?