Take the example of two hands, clasped thumb against thumb. They are symmetric, as in a mirror. However, these two hands are not stackable, as would be a right/left symmetry. Louis Pasteur was the first to discover this form of symmetry, which he called “chirality”.

If we were looking for self-referring ethics, this kind of symmetry would bring narcissism and self-love to our mind. Yet the mirror does not reflect its own image. It is not selfish! It always reflects an image other than its own. This mirror symmetry is the basis of RECIPROCITY, a value which is objective and which opens unto the Other.

Reciprocity is a well-known, very old value, known also as “Golden Rule”: it was first suggested by Confucius: “Do not do unto Others as you would not want others to do unto you.” It is a value that has proven its worth. Virtually all religions have adopted this principle. It is the negation of self-reference: “Do not do... ... what you do not want. When GB Shaw suggested “Do unto others as you would others do unto you”, the formula ceases to work, because others may not have the same taste as you! The formula is a self-referring statement.
The deterring effect of the lex talionis – “an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth…” – is well known for its dissuasive effect; however, its perfect symmetry traps it in a vicious circle, hindering any evolution. It requires forgetting the great wisdom of the Ancients, who invented forgiveness, a form of tolerance which breaks the symmetry of this law and allow situations to evolve.

I have also observed that reciprocity in mutual insurances and mutual funds leads to SOLIDARITY, a sort of by-product of reciprocity. In another context, this symmetry suggests TRUTH as a mirror of reality. It may also suggest hierarchy in society organization.

Reciprocity, solidarity, truth, all are important values in any forms of relationship, whether personal, commercial or diplomatic.