Throughout the text Luhmann uses the word 'schenken' – to give something as a present. There is no direct equivalent in English to translate this. One can talk of 'gifting', as a verb, meaning 'to endow with gifts' or 'make a present of'. However, Luhmann's use of this word in this context is a deliberate attempt to convey the liberal dimension of giving trust, which cannot be demanded (just as one cannot really demand presents if they are to remain presents, one cannot demand trust without raising suspicions).

DEFINE: Clarifies Luhmann's deliberate use of 'schenken' to convey the voluntary, liberal dimension of trust.

Niklas Luhmann, Trust and Power, loc. 85