Max-Neef and his colleagues have developed a taxonomy of human needs and a process by which communities can identify their “wealths” and “poverties” according to how these needs are satisfied.

Fundamental Human Needs	Being (qualities)	Having(things)	Doing (actions)	Interacting (settings)
subsistence	physical and mental health	food, shelter work	feed, clothe, rest, work	living environment, social setting
protection	care, adaptability autonomy	social security, health systems, work	co-operate, plan, take care of, help	social environment, dwelling
affection	respect, sense of humour, generosity, sensuality	friendships, family, relationships with nature	share, take care of, make love, expressemotions	privacy, intimate spaces of togetherness
understanding	critical capacity, curiosity, intuition	literature, teachers, policies educational	analyse, study,meditate investigate,	schools, families universities, communities,
participation	receptiveness, dedication, sense of humour	responsibilities, duties, work, rights	cooperate, dissent, express opinions	associations, parties, churches, neighbourhoods
leisure	imagination,tranquility spontaneity	games, parties, peace of mind	day-dream, remember,relax, have fun	landscapes, intimate spaces, places to be alone
creation	imagination, boldness, inventiveness, curiosity	abilities, skills, work,techniques	invent, build, design, work, compose, interpret	spaces forexpression, workshops, audiences
identity	sense ofbelonging, self- esteem, consistency	language, religions, work, customs,values, norms	get to know oneself, grow, commit oneself	places one belongs to,everyday settings
freedom	autonomy, passion, self-esteem,open-mindedness	equal rights	dissent, choose, run risks, develop awareness	anywhere