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What is it?
Reciprocal altruism is a concept in evolutionary psychology that explains why individuals help others, even at a cost to themselves, with the expectation that the favor will be returned in the future.
Proposed by biologist Robert Trivers in 1971, this theory highlights how cooperation evolved in humans and animals, ensuring mutual survival and social bonding.
Major Findings:
Strengthens Social Bonds: Acts of mutual help reinforce trust and connection within communities.
Increases Cooperation: It fosters teamwork, ensuring individuals work together for shared benefits.
Promotes Survival: In evolutionary terms, reciprocal altruism has been key to survival by ensuring mutual aid in times of need.
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What do I need to know:
Understanding reciprocal altruism provides insights into why humans and animals help each other, highlighting its evolutionary roots and its role in building trust and cooperation in relationships and communities.
Mutual Benefit: Reciprocal altruism explains how selfless acts can benefit both parties in the long run.
Foundation of Trust: Trust and fairness are essential for maintaining reciprocal relationships.
Social and Evolutionary Impact: This principle has shaped human and animal societies by encouraging cooperation and social bonding.
Caution Against Exploitation: While reciprocity strengthens relationships, being aware of imbalances helps avoid exploitation in such exchanges.
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reciprocal_altruism
Very interesting the way you explained such a broad and important concept as mutual altruism, of which I had only vaguely read! I was very intrigued by the issue and I can't wait to read the next ones on social psychology (p.s. I really appreciate the issue, it's not a form of social altruism!)