ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the understanding of the concept in the social sciences in general and in social policy and social work specifically by developing a robust empirical and theoretical analysis of reciprocity. It describes how reciprocity is built collectively, even though an individual person is seen as a subject capable of action and agency. Through the analysis of reciprocity, the book focuses on how most challenges, which may be discussed as the individual’s problems are mostly connected to other people, communities and welfare systems. It deals with theoretical, empirical and discursive concepts which at both a methodological and practical level will help in defining the goals, practices and limits to politicians’ and practitioners’ actions in welfare policy work and in better supporting the initiatives of service users themselves.
