RECIPROCAL ALTRUISM Meaning and
Definition
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Reciprocal altruism is a concept in evolutionary biology and social psychology that refers to a form of behavior in which individuals assist or benefit others with the expectation of receiving assistance or benefit in return in the future. It is grounded in the principle of reciprocity, whereby acts of kindness or cooperation are exchanged between individuals over time.
In the context of evolutionary biology, reciprocal altruism suggests that individuals engage in cooperative behaviors that may involve personal costs because they understand the long-term benefits they can reap from such actions. This concept is often associated with the evolutionary theory of natural selection, as cooperative behavior can increase an individual's inclusive fitness, enhancing their genetic chances of survival.
Reciprocal altruism is commonly observed in various animal species, including primates, dolphins, and certain bird species, where individuals engage in cooperative acts, such as grooming, food sharing, or raising offspring together. These acts are reciprocated over time, creating a mutual benefit for the individuals involved.
In social psychology, reciprocal altruism refers to human behavior that is driven by a similar principle of reciprocity. People engage in acts of kindness, cooperation, or support with the expectation that others will reciprocate these behaviors when needed. This concept plays a crucial role in building and maintaining social relationships, trust, and mutual cooperation among individuals.
Overall, reciprocal altruism underscores the significance of long-term reciprocal exchanges and mutual cooperation among individuals, leading to the evolution and maintenance of prosocial behavior in both animal and human societies.
Etymology of RECIPROCAL ALTRUISM
The term "reciprocal altruism" was coined by the renowned evolutionary biologist Robert Trivers in 1971. Trivers combined the words "reciprocal" and "altruism" to describe a phenomenon observed in nature where individuals may help others, even when it seems to be at a cost to themselves, with the expectation of receiving help in return at a later time.
The word "reciprocal" originates from the Latin word "reciprocus", which means "returning the same way" or "alternating". It is derived from the prefix "re-" meaning "back" and "pro" meaning "forward". The term "reciprocal" typically denotes a relationship or action involving mutual exchange, benefit, or interaction.
The word "altruism" has its roots in the French language, derived from the Latin term "alteri huic", meaning "to this other".
