Reciprocal Altruism

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that reciprocal altruism is a feature of socialization based on a system of reward and punishment. The author points out that reciprocal altruism appears to be an adaptive human behavior because it occurs in situations far beyond kinship and even in situations that do not result in an immediate reward for the altruistic act. The paper relates that altruism can be evaluated in terms of a cost-benefit analysis in that the altruistic act is a risk with potential or actual costs, which are weighted against the benefits of the altruistic act both for the recipient and the actor.

From the Paper:

"Reciprocal altruism can be conveniently framed in terms of game theory and the "Prisoner's Dilemma". The "Prisoner's Dilemma" accounts for the obvious complexity involved in the evolution and development of cooperative behavior in human societies. Participants base their decisions to cooperate on selfish motives, a "tit for tat system". However, participants know that cooperation may result in benefits greater than the costs involved. An investment metaphor also works: individuals invest in altruism to the extent they can bank on receiving returns."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Axelrod, Robert & Hamilton, William D. "The Evolution of Cooperation." Science. 21(4489). Mar. 27, 1981.
• Trivers, Robert L. "The Evolution of Reciprocal Altruism." The Quarterly Review of Biology. 46(1). March 1971.

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