Reciprocity

Abstract

Introduction:  The idea of reciprocity is regarded by many to be fundamental to morality.  For example, it is a pivotal notion in moral traditions which accept some form of the Golden Rule, and it is reflected in those moral theories which are articulations of those traditions.  It is central to many contemporary moral theories, such as John Rawls' widely acclaimed theory of justice as fairness.  It plays a pivotal role in the theories of moral development fo Jean Piaget and Lawrence Kohlberg.  And it has loomed large in the speculations of those sociobiologists who have tried to find biological roots for morality.  But one need not turn to such theories in order to see the centrality of the idea of reciprocity.  It can readily be observed in conversations among children.  However, as will be seen in the following discussion, reciprocity might be understood, generally, as "returning in kind."  But this could include things as various as paying a debt, returning a favor, getting even, or teaching someone a lesson.