Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and Social Safety Nets Needing Improvement in the Age of A.I.

PART ONE:  What is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs is a psychological theory proposed by Abraham Maslow in 1943. It explains human motivation by organizing needs into a five-tier pyramid—starting with the most basic and moving toward more complex psychological and self-fulfillment goals.

Here’s a breakdown of the five levels, from bottom to top:

1. Physiological Needs (Basic Survival)

These are biological requirements for human survival.

• Food

• Water

• Air

• Sleep

• Shelter

• Clothing

• Reproduction

If these needs are not met, the human body cannot function properly. They are the most basic and most pressing.

2. Safety Needs (Security and Stability)

Once physiological needs are met, the need for safety becomes important.

• Physical safety (protection from violence or natural disaster)

• Financial security (job, income, savings)

• Health and well-being

• Safe home and neighborhood

People want order, predictability, and control in their lives.

3. Love and Belonging Needs (Social Connection)

Humans are social creatures and need to feel love and connection.

• Friendship

• Intimacy (romantic or emotional)

• Family

• Social groups (community, clubs, church, etc.)

Loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection can seriously affect mental health.

4. Esteem Needs (Respect and Recognition)

This includes the desire for self-respect and respect from others.

• Achievement

• Recognition

• Status and prestige

• Independence

• Confidence and competence

People want to feel valued and that they are making a contribution.

5. Self-Actualization Needs (Personal Growth and Fulfillment)

At the top of the hierarchy is the drive to become the most you can be.

• Pursuing personal goals and dreams

• Creativity

• Problem-solving

• Seeking meaning and purpose

• Personal growth and peak experiences

This is about becoming the best version of yourself, not for external validation but for inner fulfillment.

How the Hierarchy Works

• Needs must generally be satisfied from bottom to top.

• If a lower need becomes threatened (e.g., losing a job affects safety), focus often shifts back to that level.

• The hierarchy is flexible—people can move back and forth depending on life circumstances.

PART TWO:  What are Social Safety Nets

A social safety net is a collection of government programs and policies designed to protect individuals and families from economic hardship, especially during times of crisis or vulnerability.

It ensures that people can meet their basic needs—like food, shelter, and healthcare—when they experience job loss, illness, poverty, or other disruptions.

Key Components of a Social Safety Net

1. Income Support

• Unemployment benefits

• Pensions or social security for the elderly

• Disability benefits

• Universal basic income (in experimental or proposed models)

2. Food Assistance

• Food stamps / SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

• Free or subsidized school meals

• Food banks

3. Healthcare Access

• Public healthcare systems (like the NHS in the UK or Medicare in Canada)

• Subsidized health insurance (like Medicaid in the U.S.)

4. Housing Support

• Public housing

• Rent subsidies or vouchers

• Emergency shelters

5. Childcare and Family Support

• Paid parental leave

• Subsidized childcare

• Family allowances

6. Education Support

• Free public education

• Scholarships and grants

• School supplies or transportation aid

PART THREE:  Why Social Safety Nets Are Vital to Society

Purpose of a Social Safety Net

• Prevent poverty and reduce inequality

• Protect human dignity

• Promote economic stability during downturns or crises

• Support vulnerable groups, such as children, elderly people, people with disabilities, and low-income families

Why It Matters More in an AI-Driven Economy

As AI and automation disrupt jobs, a strong social safety net:

• Buffers displaced workers during job transitions or reskilling

• Reduces social unrest and economic inequality

• Ensures people can live with dignity even when facing temporary setbacks

PART FOUR:  Which Social Safety Nets Urgently Need Improving

Many social safety nets around the world are under strain or failing to meet the needs of modern populations—especially in the face of rapid technological change (like AI), aging populations, climate shocks, and rising inequality. Below is a breakdown of key social safety nets that are failing or need improvement, and why:

Social Safety Nets That Are Failing or Inadequate

1. Unemployment Insurance (UI)

• Where it's failing: United States, parts of Asia, and some developing countries.

• Why:

  • Often excludes gig workers, freelancers, and informal sector workers.

  • Benefits may be too short-term or too small to cover basic needs.

  • Bureaucratic hurdles and slow processing times.

• Needs improvement:

  • Universal coverage, including gig economy and part-time workers.

  • Faster, more efficient delivery systems.

2. Healthcare Access

• Where it's failing: U.S. (high costs, insurance gaps), developing nations (lack of infrastructure), even some EU countries (long wait times).

• Why:

  • Not universal or affordable for all.

  • Overburdened during pandemics or crises.

• Needs improvement:

  • Universal healthcare coverage.

  • Investment in mental health and digital health infrastructure.

3. Housing Assistance

• Where it's failing: Major cities worldwide—e.g., U.S., U.K., India, South Africa.

• Why:

  • Housing affordability crisis.

  • Long waitlists for public housing.

  • Rising homelessness in urban areas.

• Needs improvement:

  • Stronger rent controls, subsidies, and investment in affordable housing.

4. Childcare and Family Support

• Where it's failing: U.S., many parts of Asia and Africa.

• Why:

  • Lack of paid parental leave.

  • Inadequate or unaffordable childcare options.

• Needs improvement:

  • Universal paid family leave.

  • Public investment in early childhood education and care.

5. Pensions and Elder Care

• Where it's failing: Countries with aging populations like Japan, Italy, and China; informal economies like in Africa and South Asia.

• Why:

  • Systems are underfunded or inaccessible.

  • Future generations may not receive benefits.

• Needs improvement:

  • Sustainable pension reform.

  • Support systems for elder care, especially as family structures shift.

6. Food Security Programs

• Where it's failing: War-torn regions (e.g., Yemen, Sudan), countries facing inflation (e.g., Argentina, Lebanon), and even food deserts in developed countries.

• Why:

  • Supply chain issues, inflation, political instability.

• Needs improvement:

  • Resilient, decentralized food systems.

  • Better targeting of food aid to vulnerable populations.

7. Education Access and Retraining

• Where it's failing: Underfunded rural schools, refugee communities, marginalized urban areas.

• Why:

  • Digital divide.

  • Lack of adult education and AI-era reskilling.

• Needs improvement:

  • Free or subsidized lifelong learning.

  • Tech and AI literacy for all, especially women and displaced workers.

Why It Matters Now (Especially in the AI Era)

• AI may displace millions of low- and middle-skill jobs.

• Without strong safety nets, people fall into poverty traps.

• Inequality grows, social unrest increases, and health outcomes worsen.

• Countries with robust, future-ready safety nets will be more stable and innovative.

COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Victory Cake for V E Day

“Victory Cake”

The streets of Ottawa still echoed with song, even as twilight spilled over Parliament Hill. Flo closed her front door softly, muffling the city’s jubilation. The red paper flags fluttered on her porch, the only part of the celebration she’d brought home.

In the quiet of her kitchen, the scent of vanilla and burnt sugar lingered. The cake had risen just right that morning — golden, slightly cracked, the way James liked it. She’d baked it before the sun came up, her hands steady despite the ache in them. Victory Day had arrived, and the war was over. But James would never know.

She set a single plate on the table. No candles. No toasts. Just the cake, his favorite: honey sponge with a touch of lemon. He used to say it reminded him of their honeymoon in Prince Edward County — sweet, light, like the wind near the lake.

Flo sliced the cake with care, plating two portions. One for her. One for the silence across from her.

A clock ticked somewhere behind her. Outside, the city roared with joy. But here, in the stillness of her kitchen, she lifted her fork, closed her eyes, and tasted what remained of love on May 8, 1945.

- Patti Friday 

Order this wall art here.

COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

International Holocaust Remembrance Day

January 27 is International Holocaust Remembrance Day, designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 2005. This date commemorates the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp,1945.

The day honors the memory of the six million Jews, along with millions of other victims, including Romani people, disabled individuals, political prisoners, and others, who were murdered during the Holocaust.

It serves as a time to reflect on the horrors of the Holocaust, educate about its history, and reaffirm a commitment to combat antisemitism, racism, and all forms of intolerance to prevent such atrocities from happening again. Events around the world often include ceremonies, survivor testimonies, educational programs, and moments of silence.

COPYRIGHT 2007-2025 Patti Friday b.1959.

Creating an opening for 'PEACE'

The idea of creating space for peace before asking for it is a profound concept. It suggests that peace requires preparation and intention. This aligns with the teachings of many spiritual traditions, including Judaism.

In Jewish practice, taking three steps back before saying “Shalom” (peace) during prayer symbolizes creating a physical and mental space to invite peace into one’s life. This act of stepping back can be seen as a way to pause, reflect, and prepare oneself to genuinely embrace and offer peace.

Rabbi Zachs’ reference to this practice highlights the importance of intentionality in seeking peace. By creating an opening, we make room for peace to enter and flourish.

Does this resonate with your understanding or experience of peace in your own life? 

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

50 Completely True Things About the Palestinian Israeli Conflict by Mo Husseini

Knowing the facts about the Middle East is crucial. It fosters informed opinions, dispels myths, and promotes empathy. Understanding the region's complexities aids in appreciating its diverse cultures and histories, while also highlighting the significance of geopolitical dynamics. Staying informed empowers individuals to advocate for peace and support humanitarian efforts effectively.

This LIST is direct. Have a look. You will definitely have something to think about and discuss with others. 

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

Give to World Central Kitchen and Jacob Flickinger's Family

"World Central Kitchen is based on the simple belief that food is a universal human right. It is not conditional on being good or bad, rich or poor, left or right. We do not ask what religion you belong to. We just ask how many meals you need." - José Andrés, Founder of World Central Kitchen

Go Fund Me for Canadian / American Jacob Flickinger's Family & Young Children Here

Photo credit to World Central Kitchen/WCK.org

COPYRIGHT 2007-2024 Patti Friday b.1959.

Project Menorah, 'Only Love Lives Here' Grassroots Movement Supporting Jewish Friends and Neighbours

Hanukkah has just come to an end. For 8 nights we lit the candles on our silver menorah.  We proudly displayed it in our window.  Midland Today interviewed me. You may read the article here.

Here are my answers to Gisele's original interview questions: 

Are you participating in ProjectMenorah and if so why?

I believe in the power of small acts to bring about big change. Project Menorah is a beautiful testament to that belief.  In a nation where less than 2% of the population is Jewish, this seemingly small act becomes a beacon of light. It becomes a symbol of empowerment for the Jewish community, a community that has faced the darkness of antisemitic hate. We have the chance to make a difference, to be the change we wish to see in the world.

(DOWNLOADABLES)

Where did you hear about it?

My Daughter sent me a graphic from Instagram with a link to their social media. I was immediately excited to participate.  I made reels, stories, and posts with hashtags. #onlyloveliveshere #projectmenorah @projectmenorah

Are you Christian or Jewish or have family or friends who Jewish?

I grew up in a non-church-going family. I also have friends and family who practice various religions including Catholics, Jews, Hindus, Muslims and more. Non-believers too.  For over forty years, I have been immersed in the rich tapestry of Jewish culture and traditions, becoming Jewish-Adjacent in my daily life. The allure of Judaism, with its deep-rooted history and profound teachings, immediately captivated me.  I am currently on a path towards conversion to Judaism.

Is this the first time you've done this? Did you have to buy a Menorah?

Since 2000, I've illuminated Hanukkah with homemade menorahs. During the pandemic, I ordered my cherished menorah, a symbol of miracles. Lighting its candles, I celebrate tradition and the enduring spirit of kindness and hope for a peaceful world.

Have you influenced others to participate?

I hope that I’m moving others to join us. I simply share my menorah photographs with relevant hashtags on my social media.  May my menorah's light spark a ripple of support for Jewish communities worldwide. Let our shared glow symbolize unity, inspiring others to stand alongside and embrace diversity with compassion and understanding.

Have you had any trouble or negative comments with it?

Sharing my menorah in the window has brought only complete support. Our home, adorned for Christmas and Hanukkah, radiates festive joy. Not a single negative comment or private message has dampened the incredible positivity and unity we feel. It is my belief that 99% of all people are kind and want a life and planet brimming with good friends, love and understanding.   

When did you put yours up?

We have lit our menorah each night since December 7^th.

Feel free to add any other comments you would like to or feel is important to share.

Project Menorah is a grassroots movement, a humble yet powerful initiative that encourages all of us, regardless of our religious background, to place a Menorah in our windows alongside our other holiday decorations. This December, we can come together in fellowship with our Non-Jewish and Jewish friends and neighbors, sending a message of solidarity and support that transcends boundaries.

9.

Patti Friday

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Project Menorah: This December, hang a Menorah in your window and tell the world “Only LOVE lives here.” Antisemitism is up 388%. With Hanukkah starting on December 7th, many Jews must reconcile their fear of violence with the very public, centuries-old tradition of placing menorahs in their windows during the holiday. Jewish families are feeling isolated and scared. And our friends are asking how they can help.
.
https://www.projectmenorah.com/
.
Post your pic and tag us so we can share your love with the world. Tag with:
.
#onlyloveliveshere

#projectmenorah

Project Menorah
https://www.instagram.com/projectmenorah/

THANK YOU!

 

 

COPYRIGHT 2007-2023 Patti Friday b.1959.

How can I help Ukraine? Resources and tips for Canadians

Humanitarian Coalition:  Donating to help many organizations in one place.

The Humanitarian Coalition brings together leading aid organizations to provide Canadians with a simple and effective way to help during international humanitarian disasters. Member agencies join forces to raise funds by mobilizing media, businesses and individual Canadians. Together, we are saving more lives.

Here are some resources Canadian and Ukrainian organizations are sharing:

• Canadian Red Cross: the local wing of an international emergency-relief organization. The federal government says it will match individual donations by Canadians.
• Médecins sans frontières (Doctors Without Borders): a humanitarian group that’s been supporting Ukraine’s COVID-19 response.
• Canada-Ukraine Foundation: a Toronto-based group that co-ordinates Canadian charitable aid to Ukraine.
• Save the Children: an international NGO delivering emergency aid to Ukrainian families.
• Voices of Children: offers psychological support to children affected by the conflict in Eastern Ukraine.
• Come Back Alive Foundation: a Ukrainian NGO that supports veterans and co-organizes the Invictus Games in Ukraine.
• Phoenix Wings: a charitable foundation that supplies the Ukrainian army with medical treatment and defensive equipment such as vests and helmets.
• Revived Soldiers Ukraine: a non-profit that funds medical rehabilitation for Ukrainian soldiers.
• Razom for Ukraine: a pro-democracy group that’s fundraising for medical supplies in Ukraine.
• Kyiv Independent: a Ukraine-based, English-language independent news media outlet.

WORLD CENTRAL KITCHEN > Chefs for Ukraine

"C'mon! One person?

One person is creating mayhem!

We are 9 billion people on planet Earth and

we're gonna let ONE person destroy what we are trying to build?"

- Jose Andres, World Central Kitchen

(Feeding Ukraine)

CORE

(Sean Penn)

"It was clear I was in the presence of something -- and again, I think reflective of so many Ukrainians -- that was new, that was new to the modern world in terms of courage and dignity"

-

@SeanPenn

, actor and co-founder of

@CoreResponse

,

on meeting Ukrainian President Zelensky.

"Already a brutal mistake of lives taken and hearts broken, and if he doesn’t relent, I believe Mr. Putin will have made a most horrible mistake for all of humankind. President Zelensky and the Ukrainian people have risen as historic symbols of courage and principle. Ukraine is the tip of the spear for the democratic embrace of dreams. If we allow it to fight alone, our soul as America is lost."

- Sean Penn

Our organization has years of experience in providing charitable aid in both Canada and Ukraine. Based in Toronto, our team is ready to answer any questions and inquiries you may have, both locally and remotely. To learn more about how The Canada-Ukraine Foundation conducts its work, or what we’re working on now, contact us today by email at info[at]cufoundation.ca, by calling (416) 966-9700, or using our form below.

COPYRIGHT 2007-2022 Patti Friday b.1959. All photographs, works of art and words are original content, unless specified otherwise. All rights reserved. Patti Friday: Reporting from inside 'The Art Dept.' at the international 'Embassy of Ideas' I am an Artist who carries a paintbrush, camera and notebook. Instagram: @pattifriday

14 Steps to Achieve a Cottagecore Aesthetic

In opposition to bad politics, injustice and this dreadful pandemic of 2020 = Cottagecore 

Step 1:   Get a Cottage or be in a place that is 'cottage-like'

Step 2:   Hang your laundry outside to dry

Step 3:   Gaze as though you have major land acreage

Step 4:   Herd all the animals yourself (kids/chickens/goats etc)

Step 5:   Cows need to be in the majority of your social photos. OK?

Step 6:   Have a picnic

Step 7:   Feature books in oodles of photos.

Step 8:   Be sure to style your picnic shoots.

Step 9:   Frolic Frolic Frolic!!!

Step 10:  Flowers every day, everywhere

Step 11:  Food shall be pretty and full of whimsy

Step 12:  Wide brim straw hats are essential. Be sure you have one.

Step 13:  Share your off-the-grid lovely life often

Step 14:  Garden Bake Cook Can Love

Further Reading:

5 reasons why... the cottagecore bedroom is the spring trend we're predicting will last and last

I am an Artist who carries a paintbrush, camera and notebook. Instagram: @pattifriday

Sally Kohn

Yesterday Sally Kohn

sent out a powerful Tweet

I get her point.

"Christians or Jews killing in name of religion = Extremists But Muslims killing in name of religion = All Muslims??! Come on..."— Sally Kohn (@sallykohn) January 7, 2015

Basically she is saying

'this is not Islam'

(Je Suis Charlie)

The killers are bad people.

It has nothing to do with being a Muslim.

We should not be blaming Islam.

"I wouldn't be rushing to defend Islam if so many people weren't rushing to implicate 1.6 billion people in the atrocious actions of a few."— Sally Kohn (@sallykohn) January 7, 2015

Sally is a Jew.

And a Liberal.

And very smart.

A complete believer in peace

and

The Golden Rule:

"What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow man: 

this is the whole Torah; the rest is the commentary; go and learn it."

- Rabbi Hillel

Her article about Israel and Palestine 

was brilliant.

PFXO

"People kill in the name of all religions—incl Islam, Christianity, Judaism. 

They don’t represent entire community. They are EXTREMISTS." - Sally Kohn

"A Million Muslim March against all violence in the name of Islam would restore Islam to the great world religion it has been and can be again. A religion that establishes the unity of all of God’s children. A religion that establishes the oneness of the human family. A religion that promotes love. And a religion that condemns hate." - Rabbi Shmuley

Patti Friday, Photojourno, reporting from inside 'The Art Dept.' at the international 'Embassy of Ideas'. Reading. Listening. Learning. Improving. Hanging out with successful people. Photographer. Pirate. Bubby. CANADA @pattifriday

Remembrance Day Cobourg Ontario Canada

Remembrance Day (also known as Poppy Day) is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth of Nations member states since the end of the First World War to remember the members of their armed forces who have died in the line of duty. The day, specifically designated by King George V on 7 November 1919, or alternative dates, are also recognized as special days for war remembrances in many non-Commonwealth countries. Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the end of hostilities of World War I on that date in 1918. Hostilities formally ended "at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month", in accordance with the armisticesigned by representatives of Germany and the Entente between 5:12 and 5:20 that morning. ("At the 11th hour" refers to the passing of the 11th hour, or 11:00 am.) The First World War officially ended with the signing of the Treaty of Versailles on 28 June 1919.

The memorial evolved out of Armistice Day, which continues to be marked on the same date. The initial Armistice Day was observed at Buckingham Palace, commencing with King George V hosting a "Banquet in Honour of the President of the French Republic" during the evening hours of 10 November 1919. The first official Armistice Day was subsequently held on the grounds of Buckingham Palace the following morning.

The red remembrance poppy has become a familiar emblem of Remembrance Day due to the poem In Flanders Fields. These poppies bloomed across some of the worst battlefields of Flanders in World War I; their brilliant red colour became a symbol for the blood spilled in the war.

Padre Arthur King noted how terrorism has changed war.    

“We are living in a time when the face of the enemy has changed,” said Padre King. “They have committed atrocities even in our very midst.” 

I cried for an entire hour.

#iremember

PFXO



Patti Friday, Photojourno, reporting from inside 'The Art Dept.' at the international 'Embassy of Ideas'. Reading. Listening. Learning. Improving. Hanging out with successful people. Photographer. Pirate. Bubby. CANADA @pattifriday