Reciprocity of expectations: charity practices

Author(s):  E.V. Reutov, candidate of Sciences, associate Professor, Belgorod National Research University, Belgorod, Russia

M.N. Reutova, candidate of Sciences, associate Professor, Belgorod National Research University, Belgorod, Russia, reggina77@mail.ru

Issue:  Volume 43, № 2

Rubric:  Sociology and Social Technologies

Annotation:  Charitable activity as a component of social solidarity is considered in the context of implementing the principle of reciprocity of expectations (prospects). Reciprocity is understood as the principle of interper-sonal and social relations, presupposing the existence of explicit and latent mutual obligations among their participants. For the reciprocity of expectations is characterized by the lack of calculation of direct compensation for the effort and resources spent. The motivation for help is connected with empathy, the awareness of the possibility to find yourself in the situation of exclusion. As the results of the empirical study show, the leading motive of mass charity is related precisely to the reciprocity of expectations. This indicates the rationalization of the charity process, the existence of social empathy and collective identity, but also the objective instability of the situation and the subjective uncertainty in the life situation of a large part of Russians.

Keywords:  charity, charity practice, reciprocity, reciprocity of expectations.

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