Requital

Requital refers to the act of making suitable return for a kindness or a wrong. It encompasses both positive and negative responses, meaning it can describe repayment for a benefit received (reward) or punishment for an offense committed (retribution). The essence of requital lies in the principle of just or appropriate exchange. It often implies a sense of deservedness or moral obligation, though the perception of what constitutes appropriate requital can be subjective and vary greatly depending on individual values and societal norms.

Requital can be distinguished from simple exchange in that it carries a stronger connotation of moral weight or justice. A simple transaction, like buying goods from a store, is not typically considered requital. However, returning a favor to a friend who previously helped you move would be seen as an act of requital. Similarly, a court-imposed sentence for a crime is a form of requital meted out by the legal system.

The concept of requital is fundamental to many ethical and legal systems, as it addresses the need for balance and fairness in human interactions. It is closely related to concepts like reciprocity, karma, and justice.