Through his research, Maslow believed that individuals who rise to the full heights of their humanity tend to possess the characteristics most of us seek in life: They tend to be altruistic, creative, open, authentic, accepting, independent, and brave. However, Maslow did not think this was entirely up to the individual. Instead, it was his belief that if society created the conditions to satisfy one’s basic needs — including the freedom to speak honestly and openly, to grow and develop one’s unique capacities and passions, and to live in societies with fairness and justice — what naturally and organically emerged would be the characteristics that resemble the best in humanity.
