Upstream reciprocity is a concept in economics and social psychology that refers to the idea of people feeling compelled to help others who have helped them, even if the help they received was not directly from the person they are helping. In other words, individuals are motivated to repay kindness or generosity shown to them by paying it forward to others rather than directly reciprocating the favor. This form of reciprocity can create a chain reaction of positive actions and increase cooperation and mutual support within a community.
