[Week 7 Reading] Moral Development of Lawrence Kohlberg

How many levels does Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development consist of, and what are they called?

Kohlberg's theory consists of three levels: Pre-conventional, Conventional, and Post-conventional.

What characterizes the Pre-conventional level of moral reasoning according to Kohlberg?

The Pre-conventional level is characterized by interpreting good and bad in terms of external rewards and punishments, focusing on self-interest, and considering the consequences of actions in terms of avoiding punishment or satisfying one's own needs.

What are the two stages within Kohlberg's Pre-conventional level of moral reasoning?

(1) Punishment and obedience

• Morality is determined by avoiding punishment and obeying authority

(2) Instrumental Purpose

• Morality is determined by satisfying one’s own needs and, occasionally, the needs of others

Describe the Conventional level of moral reasoning in Kohlberg's theory.

The Conventional level involves individuals abiding by social norms and expectations, where morality is determined by being a good person and pleasing others (Interpersonal Concordance) or by following the laws and norms of society (Law and Order).

What are the two stages within Kohlberg's Conventional level of moral reasoning?

(1) Interpersonal Concordance

• Morality is determined by being a good person and pleasing others

• “Good boy,” “good girl.”

• If they please others, people will approve them, which will make them feel satisfied

(2) Law and Order

• Morality is determined by following the laws, rules, and norms of society

• Children believes that right and wrong are determined by laws in society

What characterizes the Post-conventional level of moral reasoning in Kohlberg's theory?

The Post-conventional level involves individuals making moral decisions based on abstract principles and personal moral codes, such as social contracts and democratic principles (Social Construct) or universal ethical principles (Universal Ethical Principles).

What are the two stages within Kohlberg's Post-conventional level of moral reasoning?

(1) Social Construct

• Social contracts and democratic principles determine morality. It is important to respect everybody’s rights

(2) Universal Ethical Principles

• a person decides right or wrong based on their inner moral values, which go beyond just following what society says is okay.

What influences movement through Kohlberg's levels of moral development according to his theory?

Movement through Kohlberg's levels is influenced by cognitive growth, experiences dealing with moral questions and conflicts, interactions with peers, and the ability to understand different viewpoints and collectively create rules.

What are some key criticisms of Kohlberg's theory of moral development?

Key criticisms include questioning how moral thinking relates to behavior, whether moral reasoning is conscious or unconscious, the role of emotions, how culture and family influence moral development, and the significance of empathy.

According to critics, what is a concern regarding Kohlberg's theory and moral behavior?

Critics argue that Kohlberg's theory focuses too much on moral thinking and not enough on actual behavior, suggesting that individuals may express moral thoughts but engage in immoral actions.

How does social psychologist Jonathan Haidt differ from Kohlberg regarding moral thinking?

Haidt disagrees with Kohlberg's idea that people constantly think and reason about morality. He believes that moral thinking is more of a quick, gut reaction, and people use reasoning later to justify it.

How do critics argue that Kohlberg's theory may be culturally biased?

Critics argue that Kohlberg's theory may be culturally biased because his levels of moral reasoning are assumed to be universal, but studies have shown that level three thinking is not found in all cultures.

What did Gilligan criticize about Kohlberg's theory, and what perspective did she propose?

Gilligan criticized Kohlberg's theory for favoring a male perspective that prioritizes abstract principles over relationships. She proposed a care perspective that values connectedness and concern for others.