Human Universality in Ubiquitous Computing: Maslow, Where Are You?

Too narrow, the productivity-oriented vision guiding ubiquitous computing should be replaced or enriched with humanistic aspects. We discuss the role of Maslow´s hierarchy of needs in the creation and adoption of smart spaces, robots and wearable computers worldwide to provide elements for alternative visions of ubiquity. We show that current ubiquitous systems are stratified at the lowest levels of the hierarchy. Based on interviews, questionnaires and experiments, we highlight a positive correlation between the hierarchy of needs and the general public´s perception and possible adoption of services. Finally, we discuss implications of these results, and notably the importance of creating humanistic frameworks, services and environments.