Could you explain the meaning of the word cooperation?

We often hear and talk about cooperation: in organizational, political, and social contexts in general.

It is a widely shared opinion that the solution to many complex situations requires a higher extent of cooperation.

However, explaining its authentic meaning is not simple at all.

Listen to how the poet Maya Angelou has admirably done it.

The hand trying to wash itself is a pitiful show,
but when one hand washes the other the power grows,
becoming a force to be reckoned with.

What do you think?