Max-Neef's Human Scale Development

Max-Neef's Human Scale Development is a framework that emphasizes meeting fundamental human needs for sustainable development. It focuses on nine essential needs—such as subsistence, protection, affection, understanding, participation, creativity, identity, freedom, and leisure—arguing that these should guide economic and social policies. Instead of prioritizing economic growth alone, this approach encourages creating conditions that enhance human quality of life, ensuring that development is holistic and respects both individual and community values while being environmentally sustainable. Essentially, it seeks a balance between human needs and ecological health for a more equitable and thriving society.