A better way to think of the reputation economy is as a stealth insurance economy
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that makes sense. I've seen studies that show that generous people are helped the most when they have hard times.
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ref? that sounds counterituitive a bit... I'd have thought they get taken advantage of...fair-weather friends etc.
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but basic argument goes along with what you said. Giving builds reputation/status which you can "cash in" on when things go bad
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e.g. if I lost my job, there's people that I could lean on for help. I help them now in part as insurance for when I need help
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reciprocal altruism is an old idea...based on personal connections. "Reputation" notion intermediates that. That's new element.

