Where does music lie in the Maslow's hierarchy of needs?
The answer depends on person to person and changes from time to time. For example, if you are a person, whose livelihood is predominantly based on music, it's highly likely that the position of music in your life is in the physiological and safety level of Maslow's pyramid. If you are a person, who has a day job but, pursues music as a freelance gig, it's highly likely that the position of music in your life is in the self-esteem level. Whereas, if you are a person, who has saved up 'enough' wealth that you consider making music, not for money but, for pure joy, it's highly likely that the position of music in your life is in the self-actualization level.
The recent debates on the moral dilemma musicians face regarding performing at the Margazhi Music Season in the midst of Chennai flood relief work is a relevant case of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. As 'rasikas' it would be good to keep this scientific principle in mind, before taking a clear stance on this issue.
What is the position of music in your life's needs, at this point in time?