Kohlberg

Heinz Dilemma

A moral dilemma used to assess moral reasoning, where a man must decide whether to steal a drug to save his dying wife.

Morals

Societal views of right and wrong, often linked to ethics.

Values

Individual views of right and wrong that can vary from person to person.

Kohlberg's Theory

A theory of moral development that focuses on the justification of actions rather than the actions themselves.

Cognitive Development

The development of thinking and reasoning abilities that influence moral understanding.

Psychosocial Development

The development of emotions and social skills that affect one's moral reasoning.

Preconventional Morality

The first level of Kohlberg's theory, where moral reasoning is based on consequences and self-interest.

Conventional Morality

The second level of Kohlberg's theory, where moral reasoning is based on societal norms and maintaining relationships.

Post-Conventional Morality

The third level of Kohlberg's theory, where moral reasoning is based on abstract principles of justice and individual rights.

Social Contract

A stage in Kohlberg's theory where individuals understand that rules are social agreements that can change.

Universal Ethical Principle

A hypothetical ideal stage in Kohlberg's theory where individuals follow universal ethical principles over the law.

Criticism of Kohlberg

Includes moral thinking vs. acting, overemphasis on justice, gender bias, and cultural bias.

Moral Development Influences

Factors such as age, cognitive ability, and psychosocial context that affect how an individual develops moral reasoning.

Justice in Kohlberg's Theory

Kohlberg's theory solely relies on principles of justice, disregarding emotions and compassion.