Final answer:
Balanced reciprocity in North America can be seen in actions such as neighbors exchanging favors like mail collection, or the exchange of ambassadors between states, both operating under the expectation of equivalent exchange to maintain a balance.
Step-by-step explanation:
An example of balanced reciprocity in North America today would include neighbors collecting each other's mail when one is out of town, with the expectation of a similar favor being returned in the future. This form of exchange is based on the unspoken understanding that each party will reciprocate with equivalent services or favors. In the case where one cannot immediately reciprocate, as in the example where a parent could not return the favor of shuttling a child and chose to hire someone instead, this still falls under the logic of balanced reciprocity because there is an acknowledgment of the need to balance the exchange.
Similarly, the exchange of ambassadors between states can also be seen as an example of balanced reciprocity, where the mutual respect and equal standing are maintained through these exchanges. This principle is applied to ensure a level playing field in negotiations and interactions between states, reflecting a global application of balanced reciprocity.