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Literary notes about reciprocity (AI summary)

Literature employs the term “reciprocity” in a variety of ways, illustrating its versatility as both an abstract ideal and a concrete principle. In philosophical and sociological writings, it is often portrayed as the foundational engine of social order—a crucial mutuality that binds human interactions and community obligations [1][2]. At the same time, in narratives of personal relationships or emotional exchange, “reciprocity” underscores the natural balance between giving and receiving, where the interplay of affection and expectation reveals both harmony and tension [3][4]. Beyond individual connections, the word is also deployed in political and economic contexts, where it signifies fair exchange and a balance of rights, as seen in diplomatic negotiations and trade treaties [5][6]. This multiplicity of uses reflects the depth with which “reciprocity” captures dynamic relations, whether in matters of the heart, society, or state.
  1. Plato recognises the generating principle of human society — reciprocity of need and service.
    — from Plato and the Other Companions of Sokrates, 3rd ed. Volume 4 by George Grote
  2. And, when this influence is reciprocal, it is the relation of community or reciprocity.
    — from The Critique of Pure Reason by Immanuel Kant
  3. Reciprocity in sex love is the physical counterpart of sympathy.
    — from The Pivot of Civilization by Margaret Sanger
  4. A secret voice seems to whisper to me that there must be something more than chance in this unexpected reciprocity of friendship.
    — from The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas and Auguste Maquet
  5. And can we be so unreasonable as to suppose that they would ever consent to a Treaty that had not such terms of reciprocity?
    — from Abridgment of the Debates of Congress, from 1789 to 1856, Vol. 1 (of 16) by United States. Congress
  6. Costa Rica, with the earnestness of a sincerely friendly neighbor, solicits a reciprocity of trade, which I commend to the consideration of Congress.
    — from State of the Union Addresses by Andrew Johnson

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