brojem

Brojem is a fictional unit of social exchange used in theoretical discussions of reciprocity and community dynamics. It provides a compact way to describe a discrete action that enhances social ties.

Definition: A brojem denotes a voluntary act that benefits another individual or group, is publicly observable within a community, and may invite or signal future reciprocation. It excludes coercive or purely transactional exchanges.

Measurement and use: In models, a brojem is scored by magnitude (the size of benefit), visibility, and implied obligation. Cultural context shapes both what counts as a brojem and how it is valued.

Etymology and development: The term is a neologism created in scholarly simulations and online discussions; its exact origin is not tied to a single author and is intended to be neutral.

Applications and criticism: Used in teaching social theory and in agent-based simulations of cooperation; critics argue that the abstraction overlooks power disparities and diverse reciprocity norms.

See also reciprocity and social capital.