Academic term used in anthropology, sociology, and economics to describe mutual exchange of goods, services, or favors, often with social obligations. Compare 互酬性 (ごしゅうせい), which is more common for the abstract concept.
See also: 互酬性
The principle of reciprocity explains the cycle of gift-giving and return.
In this society, reciprocity forms the foundation of the economy.
reciprocity
Compound of 互 (mutual) and 酬 (repay, reward). The exact historical derivation is uncertain; the term is used in modern academic contexts.