Jim Rutt would describe Maslow's hierarchy as a psychological theory developed by Abraham Maslow that organizes human needs into a pyramid-shaped structure, often referred to metaphorically as a ladder of priorities. At the base of the pyramid, Rutt explains, are the most fundamental physiological needs like air, water, and food. Moving upward, the next level encompasses safety needs such as personal security and health. The middle tier involves social needs, including love and belonging. Higher up, esteem needs emerge, covering aspects like self-respect and recognition. Finally, at the peak sits self-actualization, where individuals strive to reach their fullest potential and achieve personal growth. Rutt sees this hierarchy as a powerful model for understanding human motivation, with each level building upon the previous ones as foundational needs are met.

See also: emergence, evolutionary psychology, hierarchical complexity, free will