The report presents quantitative assessments of basic human needs in the areas of food, health, education, shelter, and clothing and considers how these needs may be met in ways harmonious with environmental and developmental objectives. The target group consists of those who are below or just below poverty line. The book is presented in six chapters. Chapter I considers the dimensions of need. The chapter presents world statistics on undernourishment, literacy, income, life expectancy, and inadequate housing. It stresses that provision for psychosocial as well as physiological needs must be made. Chapter II suggests three lines of approach in assessing priority areas: the reference country, unit household, and life cycle methods. Chapter III discusses ways of establishing basic need levels, deficits, and targets. A review of population trends is included. Chapter IV considers alternatives in development and the needs/environment interaction. Chapter V discusses ways to meet needs deficiencies while considering environmental and developmental objectives within which needs would be met. Topics include food and agriculture, health services, education, shelter, and clothing. Chapter VI considers directions of technological development and the role of international trade in determining the degrees of self-reliance and interdependence of developing countries. Appendices include supplemental statistical data. (KC)