Question

Say whether each of the following situations is an example of altruism or reciprocity. [LO 7.5] a. Giving a few canned goods to the local food bank for its annual food drive. b. Helping someone move her couch after she helped you study for an upcoming exam. c. The biological relationship between cleaner fish and large predators in the ocean, in which cleaner fish keep the predator free from parasites and the predator keeps the cleaner fish safe.

Short answer

a. Altruism; b. Reciprocity; c. Reciprocity (mutualistic).

Step-by-step solution

Define Altruism

Altruism refers to behavior by an individual that benefits others at a personal cost. In this scenario, the individual does not expect anything in return for their actions.

Define Reciprocity

Reciprocity involves a mutual exchange of benefits or favors. The actions are expected to be reciprocated, meaning if one person helps another, they expect to be helped in return either directly or in the future.

Analyze Situation (a)

In situation (a), giving canned goods to a local food bank is an act of altruism. The person gives to benefit those in need without expecting any personal gain directly from those helped.

Analyze Situation (b)

In situation (b), helping someone move a couch after they helped you study is an example of reciprocity. This action is based on mutual exchange where one favor is returned by another.

Analyze Situation (c)

In situation (c), the relationship between cleaner fish and large predators is an example of mutualistic reciprocity. The cleaner fish gain protection, while the predators receive parasite-cleaning services, and both parties benefit from the relationship.

Key concepts

Mutual Exchange

Mutual exchange refers to a situation where two parties engage in a reciprocal relationship, each providing benefits to the other. In mutual exchange, both participants expect to receive something in return for what they offer. This is a key characteristic of reciprocal relationships and often helps to build trust and cooperation between the parties involved. Imagine assisting a friend with their homework and expecting assistance with moving furniture in return. The action is driven by the anticipation of reciprocity, where both friends benefit from each other's assistance and create a balanced give-and-take relationship.
Understanding mutual exchange enriches our comprehension of social interactions, as it underscores the idea that cooperation is often a two-way street. This can be seen in various aspects of life, such as professional partnerships or personal relationships, where mutual benefits make the interaction strong and sustainable. A study group is another example, where each member contributes their own strengths to help others while gaining support in return.

• Acts are performed with the expectation of mutual benefit.
• Balances give-and-take in relationships.
• Enhances long-term cooperative interactions.

Personal Cost

Personal cost refers to the sacrifices or expenditures that an individual may incur while performing an action that benefits another. It is often associated with altruistic behaviors, where an individual provides help without expecting anything in return. Such actions might include donating to charity or volunteering time for community service, where the focus is on helping others irrespective of personal gain.
When examining personal cost, it's important to understand that the value of such costs varies based on the individual's capacity and willingness to give. It is often this personal expenditure that distinguishes altruistic behavior from reciprocal actions, as the latter typically involve expected benefits.

• Personal cost involves sacrifices or efforts without direct rewards.
• Highlights altruistic actions that benefit others.
• Distinguishes unselfish motives from those expecting reciprocity.

Mutualistic Relationships

Mutualistic relationships are interactions between species or individuals where both parties gain benefits from each other, enhancing their likelihood of survival and success. These relationships are not limited to humans but are commonly observed in nature. A classic example is the relationship between cleaner fish and larger marine predators. Cleaner fish nibble away parasites from the predators' scales, gaining food while offering health services to the predators, who in return offer safety from other threats.
Understanding mutualistic relationships helps elucidate how different species or parties can thrive through cooperation. These relationships are sustainable because all parties involved gain tangible benefits, which encourage the continuation of such interactions. Unlike altruistic behaviors, mutualistic relationships are based on a mutual dependence that helps both entities better adapt to their environments and meet their needs effectively.

• Both parties benefit, leading to sustainable interactions.
• Common in nature and important for ecological balance.
• Fosters mutual dependence advantageous to all involved.