Laurence Kohlberg's Moral Theory of Development

Overview

• Developed a theory focused on moral development, distinct from overall emotional and physical development.
• Similar to Vygotsky's theory in that it is based on cognitive development.

Research Method

• Kohlberg used dilemma stories (e.g., Heinz Dilemma) to study moral reasoning.
• Famous scenario: Heinz Dilemma where Heinz steals a drug to save his wife.
• Children were asked moral questions about the dilemma to determine their reasoning.

Levels of Moral Reasoning

Kohlberg identified three main levels of moral reasoning, each divided into two stages, totaling six stages:

1. Pre-conventional Level

• Stage 1: Obedience vs. Punishment
  • Authority is external.
  • Rules are fixed; obedience to avoid punishment.
• Stage 2: Individualism and Exchange
  • Recognizes multiple viewpoints.
  • Understanding that rules are not absolute.

2. Conventional Level

• Stage 3: Good Boy and Good Girl
  • Behavior is guided by seeking approval from others.
  • Emphasizes conformity and social approval.
• Stage 4: Maintaining Social Order
  • Awareness of societal laws and rules.
  • Judgments based on upholding laws and avoiding guilt.

3. Post-conventional Level

• Stage 5: Social Contract
  • Laws exist for the greater good, but may need to be broken in some instances for higher ethical principles.
  • Focus on individual rights and justice.
• Stage 6: Universal Ethical Principle
  • Development of personal moral guidelines.
  • Willingness to act on principles even if against societal laws, accepting potential punishment.
  • Few people reach this stage (e.g., Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King).

Conclusion

• Kohlberg's theory suggests moral reasoning progresses in a fixed sequence.
• Not everyone reaches the final stages of moral development.
• His work highlights the complexity of moral reasoning beyond simply obeying laws.