Overview
This lecture explains Lawrence Kohlberg's six-stage theory of moral development, organized into three levels, with examples to illustrate each stage and discussion questions about the Heinz dilemma.
Kohlberg's Stages of Moral Development
- Moral reasoning develops in six stages, grouped into three levels: pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional.
- The theory is based on studies involving boys aged 10–16 and their responses to moral dilemmas.
Pre-Conventional Level
- Stage 1: Obedience and punishment drive decisions; actions are judged by consequences (e.g., Finn avoids helping to escape punishment).
- Stage 2: Self-interest motivates moral choices; actions are based on personal gain (e.g., Mary helps Tom expecting reciprocal help).
Conventional Level
- Stage 3: Interpersonal accord and conformity; desire to be seen as "good" by others (e.g., Betty conforms to peer behavior).
- Stage 4: Authority and law/order; upholding societal rules is paramount (e.g., teacher intervenes due to school rules).
Post-Conventional Level
- Stage 5: Social contract orientation; rules are seen as agreements that should benefit everyone (e.g., Jessie questions fairness of rules).
- Stage 6: Universal ethical principles; guided by abstract concepts like justice and compassion, even over written rules (e.g., headmaster emphasizes justice and empathy).
Application: Heinz Dilemma
- The Heinz dilemma presents a situation where a man steals medicine to save his wife, prompting discussion of moral reasoning at different stages.
- Students are encouraged to consider if Heinz should steal the drug and how circumstances might alter their judgment.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Pre-conventional Level — Moral reasoning based on personal consequences.
- Conventional Level — Moral reasoning centered around social norms and law.
- Post-conventional Level — Moral reasoning guided by abstract principles beyond societal rules.
- Heinz dilemma — A moral dilemma used by Kohlberg to study moral reasoning.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Write your answers and justifications for the Heinz dilemma questions.
- Reflect on which moral development stage best matches your reasoning.