Need typology

Discover the thirteen fundamental human needs

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Security

Being safe from harm and threats, rather than feeling vulnerable, threatened, or insecure.

Security is about feeling safe and stable in your life—knowing that you have a solid foundation to stand on and that you're protected from serious threats. It's the peace of mind that comes from believing your basic needs will be met and that your world won't suddenly fall apart.

This need shows up when you have enough savings to handle an unexpected car repair, when you live in a neighborhood where you feel safe walking at night, or when you have a job that provides steady income and benefits. It's also about emotional security—having routines you can count on, relationships that feel stable, and systems that work predictably.

Security might mean keeping emergency supplies in your home, choosing reliable brands over cheaper alternatives, or maintaining good relationships with neighbors who could help in a crisis. It's buying insurance, following familiar routes, and having backup plans for important events.

When security is threatened—through job loss, health scares, or social instability—anxiety often takes over and it becomes hard to focus on anything else. When it's present, you have the mental freedom to take reasonable risks, pursue opportunities, and invest energy in growth rather than constantly worrying about survival.

Sub-needs

Feeling physically safe

Living in a stable society

Feeling financially secure

Conserving the things in life that are important to you

Needs on a Desert Island

Imagine you're shipwrecked on a desert island with a group of survivors. You're responsible for fulfilling everyone's fundamental needs to create a thriving community.

You must ensure your islanders are safe from harm. When a potential food source is discovered, you must determine that it isn’t poisonous. Anyone who climbs a tree or a cliff has to be extremely careful, as a broken limb or nasty cut can mean a death sentence now. More than just being safe, people also need to feel safe. To achieve this, you keep fires burning through the night as a mental safeguard against the sinister shadows and strange sounds coming from the jungle.

Fundamental Needs in Overview

What does security look like in the House of Needs? Click the image to find out!

Is it possible to design a chair that specifically fulfills the need for security? Click the image to find out!