Final answer:
Altruism refers to selfless acts done for others without expecting anything in return, and it is a form of prosocial behavior often exhibited in close relationships where generalized reciprocity prevails.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term for doing something for other people with no expectation of them doing anything in return is called altruism. Altruism is characterized by a selfless concern for the well-being of others without anticipating any compensation or benefits in return. It is a form of prosocial behavior, which is a voluntary behavior with the intent to help other people. These concepts can often be seen in close relationships like family and friendships where the practice of sharing — referred to as generalized reciprocity — takes place without the intention of receiving anything in return.
Altruism goes beyond expected social norms, like reciprocal actions found in balanced reciprocity or market exchanges, and highlights the human capacity for generosity. This is evident in scenarios where individuals may risk or even sacrifice their own well-being for the benefit of others, as seen in heroic acts during emergencies or in daily gestures of kindness within personal relationships.
While altruism might seem contrary to the idea of 'survival of the fittest' and 'selfish gene' theories, it is present in various species and is a significant aspect of human society, enriching our social interactions and bonds.