Why Does Reciprocity Work?

The norm of reciprocity can influence our behavior when we sense a moral obligation to return a favor. ... This internal reciprocity encourages us to repay a debt not because people expect us to, but because we want to reward a particular behavior. Social reciprocity also compels us to reward helpful gestures.

Why is reciprocity so powerful?

The experiment demonstrates the powerful cultural force known as reciprocity. Sociologists maintain that all human societies subscribe to the principle that we are obligated to repay favors, gifts, and invitations. ... Reciprocity is so powerful that it can result in exchanges of completely unequal value.

What is the reciprocity effect?

The reciprocity principle is one of the basic laws of social psychology: It says that in many social situations we pay back what we received from others. In other words, if John does you a favor, you're likely to return it to him.