Although fairness is an essential part of determining a reciprocal response, it is sometimes difficult to define what is fair in a given situation and find the appropriate proportional response can be hard. What one person deems to be a fair and ‘proportional response’ may be very different from the next person, and herein lies the problem. For example, what is a fair way to measure what someone is ‘due’, and how can one be sure they have reciprocated in a ‘proportional’ fashion? Should an individual’s contribution, whatever it may be, be measured by their effort or by their output? How does this come into play in group collaborations? Where fairness is a vital part of reciprocity, it can be a difficult aspect to navigate because people’s ideas about what is ‘fair’ are largely subjective. There are many issues embedded in how to determine what fairness requires.

Fairness could be described as giving each individual his or her proportional due. The norm of reciprocity requires that one make fitting and proportional responses to both the benefits and harms one receives - the ultimate goal being to produce stable, productive, fair, and reliable social interactions. Paula (no ads) Guidelines for Philosophical DiscussionĪnansi the Spider raises philosophical questions about the nature of reciprocity and its relationship to fairness: he wants to reward one of his sons with a globe of light for saving his life, but has trouble deciding which son is most deserving. He consults Nyame, the “God of All Things,” for help. When Anansi is rescued and arrives back home safely, he has trouble figuring out which son deserves a reward for saving him. One of his six sons can sense trouble and alerts his brothers to come to their father’s rescue. In this story, Anansi goes on a journey only to find himself in great danger. Questions for Philosophical Discussion » Summary Anansi the Spider raises philosophical questions about the nature of reciprocity and its relationship to fairness.Īnansi the spider is an African folktale character who is associated with skill and wisdom and often triumphs over foes larger than he.

Anansi the Spider by Gerald McDermott