It's been several years since I have read about Maslow, but I think this is an incorrect interpretation.<p>The hierarchy is a pyramid because upper levels are built on top of the lower ones. Without fulfilling the physiological needs, you are unable to move up the pyramid. This makes very good (and common) sense: if you are starving, you won't have any cognitive excess to think about self esteem or spiritual fulfillment.<p>Maslow's theories have historical value and reflect their zeitgeist (explains much, predicts little), but they don't fit with the idea of "being grounded in the lower levels." It's not like you choose which level to stay at. Rather, fulfilling the lower levels enables entry to higher levels.<p>More relevant: Terry Gou, CEO of Foxconn (thank them for your Apples), said "hungry people have clearer minds." It fits with the interpretation that maintaining a survival drive can boost initiative, but again, I doubt this is Maslow.