“It is as necessary for man to live in beauty rather than ugliness as it is necessary for him to have food for an aching belly or rest for a weary body.”
- April 1, 1908 – June 8, 1970
- American
- Psychologist, Creator of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, Humanistic Psychology Pioneer
table of contents
Quote
“It is as necessary for man to live in beauty rather than ugliness as it is necessary for him to have food for an aching belly or rest for a weary body.”
Explanation
In this quote, Abraham Maslow asserts that beauty is not a luxury but a fundamental human need, on par with food and rest. He suggests that aesthetic experience plays a crucial role in psychological health, and that environments filled with beauty—whether natural, artistic, or architectural—nourish the soul just as food sustains the body. Living in beauty uplifts, inspires, and provides emotional balance, while constant exposure to ugliness, disorder, or chaos can diminish one’s well-being.
Maslow’s inclusion of beauty within the broader framework of his hierarchy of needs reflects his belief in a holistic view of human fulfillment. While basic survival needs come first, once those are met, people naturally seek aesthetic, cognitive, and spiritual experiences. He observed that self-actualizing individuals often displayed a deep appreciation for beauty and order, and that this sensitivity to aesthetics contributed to their sense of meaning and inner peace.
In contemporary terms, this insight is affirmed by fields such as environmental psychology, urban design, and art therapy, which show that surroundings have a profound effect on mood, creativity, and mental health. From designing healing spaces in hospitals to preserving green areas in cities, Maslow’s idea underscores the truth that beauty is not merely decoration—it is sustenance for the human spirit. To thrive, people need to dwell not only in safety and comfort, but in environments that speak to their innate longing for harmony and inspiration.
Would you like to share your impressions or related stories about this quote in the comments section?
