Reciprocity as a Cultural Norm Between Low Countries Nobility
Recipriocity up and down the social ladder (rather than strict heirarchical obligations) was an important principle to the “propeterial classes” in the Low Countries.
This was a concept alien to Philip II and the Spaniards.
(WP: Why? What does that say a/b Spanish cultural norms?)
Source: Marshal, Dutch Gentry, pg xv