By Albert DeSimone

American voters didn’t issue a mandate; they registered a complaint. The issues surrounding COVID and the economic situation of the last four years have contributed to a reactionary electorate. 

To put the recent election results in perspective, let’s use Malsow’s hierarchy of needs: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization. 

5. Self-actualization: morality, creativity, spontaneity, acceptance, experience purpose, meaning, and inner potential

4. Self-Esteem: confidence, achievement, respect of others, the need to be a unique individual

3. Love and Belonging: friendship, family, intimacy, sense of connection

2. Safety and Security: health, employment, property, family, and social ability

1. Psychological Needs: breathing, food, water, shelter, clothing, sleep

These needs are expressed as a pyramid—1 at the bottom and 5 at the top. The ultimate human goal is number 5, but the entire hierarchy is supported by 1 and 2.

Not only do the bottom 2 support the top 3, they are also the area of conservative focus. 

The top 3 needs are of most appeal to liberal America. As wonderful and admirable as the top 3 elements are, they can’t be achieved without the foundational support of the lower tiers. 

Presently, and based on voter preferences, Americans are saying we need to concentrate on the bottom. Unfortunately, that is to the detriment of the top. 

At this time, self-preservation is more important than self-actualization. There is, however, reason for optimism. With stabilized fundamental needs, we, as a nation, can strive for the pinnacle. 

Albert DeSimone is a retired University of Georgia information technologist who resides in Bishop.