Lawrence Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development

Overview

• Theory: Moral reasoning develops in six stages, structured within three levels.
• Levels:
  • Pre-conventional
  • Conventional
  • Post-conventional

Stages of Moral Development

Pre-conventional Level

• Stage 1: Obedience and Punishment

  • Moral reasoning based on avoidance of punishment.
  • Example: Finn refrains from helping his friend to avoid being punished.

• Stage 2: Self-interest

  • Decisions driven by self-gain.
  • Example: Mary helps Tom, anticipating future reciprocation.

Conventional Level

• Stage 3: Interpersonal Accord and Conformity

  • Behavior is influenced by peer pressure and desire for approval.
  • Example: Betty refrains from intervening to conform to group behavior.

• Stage 4: Authority and Social Order

  • Emphasis on maintaining societal laws and order.
  • Example: Teacher intervenes citing the importance of following rules.

Post-conventional Level

• Stage 5: Social Contract

  • Rules are flexible and serve a purpose for society.
  • Example: Jessie questions the fairness of the rules regarding Tom's actions.

• Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principles

  • Grounded in abstract ethical principles and justice.
  • Example: Headmaster believes rules must be based on justice and compassion.

Application to Moral Dilemma

• Heinz Dilemma: Evaluates moral reasoning by presenting a scenario where Heinz steals a drug to save his wife.
  • Questions posed about variations in the scenario:
    • Should Heinz steal if he doesn’t love his wife?
    • Does the relationship to the dying person affect moral reasoning?
    • Should the druggist face consequences if the wife dies?

Connections to Other Theories

• Influence: Based on Piaget's cognitive development theory.
• Research Methodology: Kohlberg interviewed boys aged 10-16, assessing moral reasoning through hypothetical dilemmas.

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