Piaget on the Moral Development of Forgiveness: Identity or Reciprocity?

In 1932 Piaget theorized that ideal reciprocity is the underlying cognitive operation that makes the understanding and appreciation of forgiveness possible. Basing our analysis on modern philosophical inquiry, empirical study, and theory, we propose that abstract identity rather than ideal reciprocity underlies forgiveness. We argue the philosophical and psychological adequacy of abstract identity and consider the significance of forgiveness within human development.