Lawrence Kohlberg's Moral Development

What is Kohlberg's theory of moral development?

Kohlberg proposed a theory that moral reasoning develops in three levels, each with two stages, as individuals face ethical dilemmas and resolve conflicts between personal needs and social rules.

What are the three levels of Kohlberg's moral development?

The three levels are: 1) Preconventional, 2) Conventional, and 3) Postconventional.

What is the focus of the preconventional level?

The preconventional level focuses on self-interest, with moral reasoning based on avoiding punishment or seeking rewards.

What are the two stages of the preconventional level?

Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment - Behavior is judged by its consequences. Stage 2: Self-Interest - Behavior is guided by personal gain and reciprocal benefit.

What is the focus of the conventional level?

The conventional level emphasizes social approval and maintaining social order through adherence to rules and norms.

What are the two stages of the conventional level?

Stage 3: Interpersonal Relationships - Morality is based on seeking approval from others. Stage 4: Authority and Social Order - Morality involves obeying laws and maintaining societal order.

What is the focus of the postconventional level?

The postconventional level focuses on abstract principles of justice and ethics, often transcending laws and societal norms.

What are the two stages of the postconventional level?

Stage 5: Social Contract - Morality is based on upholding rights and agreed-upon principles. Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principles - Morality is guided by internalized ethical values, such as justice and equality.

What is an example of Stage 1 (Obedience and Punishment)?

A child does not steal a toy because they fear being punished.

What is an example of Stage 2 (Self-Interest)?

A person helps a friend because they expect the favor to be returned in the future.

What is an example of Stage 3 (Interpersonal Relationships)?

A teenager follows the rules to gain approval from friends or family.

What is an example of Stage 4 (Authority and Social Order)?

A person obeys traffic laws to maintain order and safety in society.

What is an example of Stage 5 (Social Contract)?

A person votes for laws that protect individual rights, even if they conflict with societal traditions.

What is an example of Stage 6 (Universal Ethical Principles)?

A person refuses to participate in an unjust war because it violates their principles of justice and human dignity.

How did Kohlberg study moral development?

Kohlberg used hypothetical moral dilemmas, such as the Heinz dilemma, where participants had to decide whether a man should steal medicine to save his wife.

What is the Heinz dilemma?

The Heinz dilemma is a hypothetical scenario in which a man must decide whether to steal a drug he cannot afford to save his dying wife, prompting discussion of moral reasoning.

What are some critiques of Kohlberg's theory?

Critiques include a focus on justice over other moral values (e.g., care or empathy), cultural bias favoring Western individualism, and a lack of attention to emotional and social influences on moral reasoning.

How did Carol Gilligan critique Kohlberg's theory?

Carol Gilligan argued that Kohlberg's theory overlooked the moral reasoning of care and relationships, which she believed were more prevalent in women's ethical decision-making.

Why is Kohlberg's theory significant?

Kohlberg's theory provides a framework for understanding the progression of moral reasoning and has influenced education, parenting, and ethical discussions.