Final answer:
The most essential level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs is the physiological level, which encompasses the basic requirements for survival like food and shelter.
Step-by-step explanation:
The bottom and most essential level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs is physiological needs. This includes all the basic needs that are necessary for survival, such as food and shelter. Maslow emphasized that these physiological needs must be satisfied first before higher-level needs like safety, belonging, love, esteem, and self-actualization can be addressed.