Source: Twitter X

John Adams did use the term “reciprocity” in his writings, though primarily in diplomatic, political, and legal contexts rather than as a standalone moral principle.

For instance, in letters discussing treaties and alliances, he emphasized reciprocity as mutual equality, such as in alliances with France on “Terms of perfect Equality and Reciprocity” or in trade negotiations where he argued for “true Reciprocity” in liberties and rights between nations.

He also applied it to social contract ideas, like the reciprocal nature of protection and allegiance, noting that when protection is withdrawn, allegiance dissolves.

These uses align with Enlightenment-era notions of balanced obligations but do not directly frame reciprocity as a synonym for ethics or morality in the way modern philosopher.