UNIT 4. THE 3 LEVELS OF MORAL DILEMMA

3 levels of moral dilemma

refer to stages of moral development

Lawrence Kohlberg ;

Theory of Moral Reasoning

The three levels of moral dilemma refer to stages of moral development as outlined by____________ in his _________________.

1. Pre-conventional Level (Stage 1-2)

2. Conventional Level (Stage 3-4)

3. Post-conventional Level (Stage 5-6)

THREE LEVELS OF MORAL DILEMMA:

Stage 1: Obedience & Punishment Orientation

Stage 2: Individualism & Exchange

Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships

Stage 4: Maintaining Social Order

Stage 5: Social Contract & Individual Rights

Stage 6: Universal Principles

6 Stages

Stage 1: Obedience & Punishment Orientation

Moral reasoning is based on avoiding punishment and obeying authority.

The focus is on the direct consequences of actions.

Stage 1: Obedience & Punishment Orientation

Example: A child refrains from taking a cookie from a jar because they fear being punished by their parents. The decision is driven by a desire to avoid negative consequences.

Stage 2: Individualism & Exchange

Individuals recognize that others have different interests and that moral decisions can vary based on individual needs.

Decisions are made based on self-interest and a sense of fair exchange.

Stage 2: Individualism & Exchange

Example: Two children agree to share their toys in exchange for snacks. The decision is based on mutual benefit, with each child acting in their own self-interest.

Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships

Moral reasoning is centered around social relationships and the expectations of others.

People strive to be seen as "good" by those around them.

Stage 3: Good Interpersonal Relationships

Example: A teenager helps a friend with homework to be perceived as a good friend and gain approval from their peers. The decision is guided by the desire to maintain positive relationships and meet social expectations.

The focus shifts to maintaining law, order, and the welfare of society as a whole. Morality is defined by following rules and respecting authority to preserve social order.

Stage 5: Social Contract & Individual Rights

People recognize that laws and rules should serve the greater good and can be changed if they are unjust.

Moral reasoning involves weighing individual rights against societal needs.

Stage 5: Social Contract & Individual Rights

Example: A person votes in an election, understanding that while not all laws are perfect, participating in democracy is crucial for societal progress. They support the idea that laws should evolve to reflect justice and fairness.

Stage 6: Universal Principles

Moral reasoning is guided by internal principles of justice and equality.

Individuals follow self-chosen ethical principles, even if they conflict with laws or social norms.

Stage 6: Universal Principles

Example: A civil rights activist peacefully protests against an unjust law, prioritizing principles of justice and human rights over legal consequences. Their actions are motivated by a deep commitment to universal ethical standards.