What if the greatest act of courage in war wasn’t fighting—but choosing peace?
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Why do some people become selfish, aggressive, or even violent? It’s not random—it’s deeply rooted in human needs. When people lack access to basic necessities like food, water, shelter, security, and emotional support, they become more likely to act out in destructive ways. Deprivation breeds fear, isolation, and desperation, driving individuals to take more than they need, lash out at others, or prioritize survival over compassion. This video explores the hidden forces behind human behavior, revealing how unmet needs shape our actions in ways we may not even realize.
On the other hand, when people’s needs are met—when they feel safe, valued, and connected—they are more likely to be generous, empathetic, and community-minded. Gratitude replaces greed, and cooperation thrives over competition. By understanding these dynamics, we can stop blaming individuals for systemic failures and start focusing on solutions that foster kindness, resilience, and social harmony.
This eye-opening perspective challenges the mainstream narrative that selfishness and violence are inherent traits. Instead, it uncovers how environmental and social factors shape who we become. What if the key to a more peaceful, compassionate world isn’t punishment, but ensuring that no one is left behind? The answer could change everything.
I am a human being.
I have needs.
I have a need for healthy food.
I have a need for clean water.
I have a need for shelter.
I have a need to feel safe and secure.
I have a need to feel included.
I have a need to be accepted as I am.
I have a need to feel useful and needed.
I have a need to love and feel loved.
I have a need to be validated and heard.
I have a need to be acknowledged for my gifts.
I have a need to feel like I belong.
When my needs are not met,Â
I am more likely to be fearful.
to be selfish.
to be reactionary.
to take more than I need.
to be irrational.
to be angry.
to be violent.
To hoard
To be individually focused
to engage in risky behaviors.
to commit crimes
I will be unable to empathize and care for the needs of others.
However, if my needs are met, I am more likely
To be generous
To be grateful
To be inspired.
To be insightful
To feel alive
To be helpful
To be community-minded
To have self-love and respect
To want to give
To be grateful to receive
To have wisdom
I will be able to empathize and care for the needs of others.
I am a human being and this is how I can be understood.
This video was a collaboration between Sustainable Human and over 30 voices from around the world.
Music credits:
Why do some people become selfish, aggressive, or even violent? It’s not random—it’s deeply rooted in human needs. When people lack access to basic necessities like food, water, shelter, security, and emotional support, they become more likely to act out in destructive ways. Deprivation breeds fear, isolation, and desperation, driving individuals to take more than they need, lash out at others, or prioritize survival over compassion. This video explores the hidden forces behind human behavior, revealing how unmet needs shape our actions in ways we may not even realize.
On the other hand, when people’s needs are met—when they feel safe, valued, and connected—they are more likely to be generous, empathetic, and community-minded. Gratitude replaces greed, and cooperation thrives over competition. By understanding these dynamics, we can stop blaming individuals for systemic failures and start focusing on solutions that foster kindness, resilience, and social harmony.
This eye-opening perspective challenges the mainstream narrative that selfishness and violence are inherent traits. Instead, it uncovers how environmental and social factors shape who we become. What if the key to a more peaceful, compassionate world isn’t punishment, but ensuring that no one is left behind? The answer could change everything.
I am a human being.
I have needs.
I have a need for healthy food.
I have a need for clean water.
I have a need for shelter.
I have a need to feel safe and secure.
I have a need to feel included.
I have a need to be accepted as I am.
I have a need to feel useful and needed.
I have a need to love and feel loved.
I have a need to be validated and heard.
I have a need to be acknowledged for my gifts.
I have a need to feel like I belong.
When my needs are not met,Â
I am more likely to be fearful.
to be selfish.
to be reactionary.
to take more than I need.
to be irrational.
to be angry.
to be violent.
To hoard
To be individually focused
to engage in risky behaviors.
to commit crimes
I will be unable to empathize and care for the needs of others.
However, if my needs are met, I am more likely
To be generous
To be grateful
To be inspired.
To be insightful
To feel alive
To be helpful
To be community-minded
To have self-love and respect
To want to give
To be grateful to receive
To have wisdom
I will be able to empathize and care for the needs of others.
I am a human being and this is how I can be understood.
This video was a collaboration between Sustainable Human and over 30 voices from around the world.
Music credits:
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