Big Problem
In Maslow's framework, Big Problems refers to the fundamental, existential issues and challenges that humanity faces on a global scale. These are profound questions about life, meaning, values, and survival that go beyond individual concerns and touch on universal human dilemmas. Maslow felt that if humanity was to advance towards self-actualization and transcendence, they had to solve the big problems.[1] It is a phrase used by Maslow in his speculations and discussion of Human Potential.
Abraham Maslow Terms
B-Cognition, B-Realm, Big Problem, D-Cognition, D-Realm, Deficiency Diseases, Eupsychia, Eupsychian Theory, Good Person, Good Science, Good Society, Good Specimen, Hierarchy of Basic Needs, Hierarchy of Cognitive Needs, Intrinsic Consciousness, Normalcy, Normative Biology, Plateau Experience, Self-Actualization, Transcending Self-Actualizers, Transhumanistic
Syncretic Terms
Big Problems
Big Problems > Good Person, Good Society
Related LP Terms
Non-LP Related Terms
Notes
Some examples of "Big Problems" include:
Moral and Ethical Questions: Issues of justice, fairness, and the nature of good and evil are "Big Problems" for Maslow, as they drive individuals and societies to reflect on what it means to live ethically and to pursue a "good society."
Human Survival and Coexistence: Maslow considered problems like war, poverty, environmental degradation, and social inequality to be "Big Problems" that require collaborative, compassionate solutions to ensure survival and well-being on a global level.
Existential Questions: Questions about the meaning of life, death, and the human experience are examples of Big Problems that, Maslow believed, require introspection and a values-based approach.
Personal Growth and Fulfillment: On an individual level, Big Problems include challenges like finding one’s purpose, realizing one's potential, and achieving personal growth. Maslow saw these personal challenges as deeply linked to larger societal goals.
Maslow argued that facing these "Big Problems" is a path to self-actualization, as they push people to think beyond themselves, confront the unknown, and aspire to make meaningful contributions to the world. He believed that addressing Big Problems—both personally and collectively—was essential for the development of a healthy, thriving society.[2]
The Good Person and the Good Society
Maslow was particularly concerned with two big problems, namely how to make a Good Person and how to make a Good Society
"Therefore I would urge all biologists. as I would urge all other people of goodwill, to put their talents into the service of these two Big Problems."[3]
Footnotes
