Necessity vs. Need

Attribute	Necessity	Need
Definition	The state or quality of being necessary	Something that is required or essential
Importance	Crucial	Significant
Existence	Exists inherently	Can be created or eliminated
Dependency	Dependent on other factors or conditions	Can be independent or dependent
Subjectivity	Objective	Can be subjective
Scope	Broader	Can be narrower
Time Sensitivity	Can be time-sensitive	Can be time-sensitive
Essentiality	Essential	Can be essential or non-essential
Consequence	May have severe consequences if not fulfilled	May have consequences if not fulfilled

Introduction

When discussing the concepts of necessity and need, it is important to understand the subtle differences between the two. While they may seem similar at first glance, necessity and need have distinct attributes that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of both necessity and need, highlighting their significance in various contexts.

Necessity

Necessity refers to something that is essential or required in a particular situation or for a specific purpose. It implies that without this particular element, the desired outcome or goal cannot be achieved. Necessity often arises from external factors or circumstances that dictate its importance. For example, in the context of survival, food and water are considered necessities as they are vital for sustaining life. Necessity is often driven by urgency and the absence of alternatives.

Furthermore, necessity can also be subjective, varying from person to person or situation to situation. What may be necessary for one individual may not hold the same level of importance for another. This subjectivity is influenced by personal beliefs, values, and priorities. For instance, while some may consider a smartphone a necessity for communication and productivity, others may view it as a luxury or an unnecessary expense.

In addition, necessity is often associated with meeting basic needs or fulfilling fundamental requirements. These needs can be physiological, such as food, water, and shelter, or psychological, such as love, belonging, and self-esteem. Necessities are essential for human well-being and are often considered universal, regardless of cultural or societal differences.

Need

Need, on the other hand, refers to a requirement or desire for something that is perceived as lacking or missing. It is a state of deficiency or insufficiency that prompts an individual to seek a solution or fulfill a particular desire. Needs can be both tangible and intangible, ranging from material possessions to emotional support.

Unlike necessity, needs are not always urgent or critical for survival. They can be driven by personal aspirations, societal expectations, or individual preferences. For example, the need for self-actualization, as proposed by Maslow's hierarchy of needs, goes beyond basic survival and encompasses personal growth, creativity, and fulfillment.

Moreover, needs can be influenced by external factors such as cultural norms, social conditioning, and peer pressure. Society often shapes our perception of needs by promoting certain products, lifestyles, or ideals. This influence can sometimes blur the line between genuine needs and artificial desires.

Comparison

While necessity and need share some similarities, they differ in several key aspects. Let's explore these differences:

1. Importance and Urgency

Necessity is often associated with a higher level of importance and urgency compared to needs. Necessities are essential for survival or achieving a specific goal, while needs may not have the same level of criticality. For example, while food is a necessity for survival, the need for a specific type of cuisine or gourmet meal is more of a personal preference or desire.

2. Subjectivity

As mentioned earlier, necessity can be subjective, but needs are even more subjective. Necessities are often driven by universal human requirements, while needs can vary greatly from person to person. What one individual perceives as a need may not hold the same significance for another. This subjectivity is influenced by personal values, beliefs, and cultural backgrounds.

3. Fulfillment and Satisfaction

Necessities are often associated with meeting basic requirements and ensuring survival or well-being. Fulfilling a necessity brings a sense of relief and satisfaction. On the other hand, needs are often linked to desires or aspirations beyond basic survival. Meeting a need may bring a sense of fulfillment or happiness, but it may not be essential for overall well-being.

4. External Factors

Necessities are often driven by external factors or circumstances that dictate their importance. They are influenced by the environment, situation, or specific goals. Needs, on the other hand, can be influenced by both external factors and internal desires. Society, culture, and personal preferences play a significant role in shaping our perception of needs.

5. Flexibility and Alternatives

Necessities often leave little room for flexibility or alternatives. They are essential and must be fulfilled in a specific way. Needs, however, offer more flexibility and alternatives. There can be multiple ways to fulfill a need, and individuals have the freedom to choose the most suitable option based on their preferences, resources, or circumstances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while necessity and need may seem similar, they have distinct attributes that set them apart. Necessity refers to something essential or required, often driven by urgency and external factors. It is associated with meeting basic needs and ensuring survival or well-being. On the other hand, need refers to a requirement or desire for something perceived as lacking, influenced by personal aspirations, societal expectations, and individual preferences. Needs can vary greatly from person to person and offer more flexibility in terms of alternatives. Understanding the differences between necessity and need is crucial for making informed decisions and prioritizing our resources effectively.