Chapter 2

Humans of New York is social media at its finest. I’m sure the majority of you reading this are already aware of this site/facebook page. I love how the photographer captures moments of people from all walks of life—each with a different story to share. Despite our differences, humans have a lot in common.  

I enjoyed learning about humanism in chapter two. I agree that all humans have basic needs and drives and that it’s important to respect yourself and others. I’m not sure about the hierarchy of needs, though. Physiological needs must be met in order to stay alive but I think needs two through four (safety and security, love and belonging, respect and esteem) don’t need to be in any particular order. These feelings/needs may come and go throughout a person’s life, but when they’re all in balance a person achieves self-actualization.

I think self-actualization comes in moments and more people experience it than most humanists believe. Berger writes, “peak experiences occur when the intense joy of life makes time stop, makes self-seeking disappear, and makes the music of the heavens echo in daily life” (Berger, 2011). I think self-actualization comes from finding joy and beauty in ordinary, simple things. It doesn’t have to be loud or bold. It’s complete contentment. Peace of mind. A feeling that there is nowhere else you’d rather be. And, I believe it’s more attainable than we realize.