Download - Kohler’s stages of moral developmente
Kohlerrsquos Stages of Moral
Development
DrHarim Mohsin
Moral Development
Moral development
is the gradual development of
an individuals concept of right
or wrong ndash conscious religious
values social attitudes and
certain behaviour
Early influence
Kohlberg followed the development of moral judgment far beyond the ages
studied earlier by Piaget who also claimed that logic and morality develop
through constructive stages Looking at the philosophy of Jean Piaget and
Lawrence Kohlberg regarding why and how people justify the decisions they
make
Kohlberg amp his stage theory
Kohlberg became a professor of education and social psychology at Harvard in 1968
His book on moral development is used by teachers around the world to promote moral reasoning
This theory is a stage theory In other words everyone goes through the stages sequentially without skipping any stage
However movement through these stages are not natural movement occurs when a person notices inadequacies in his or her present way of coping with a given moral dilemma
According to stage theory people cannot understand moral reasoning more than one stage ahead of their own
Kohlbergrsquos Six Stages
Pre-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 1
Stage 2
Conventional Moral Development
Stage 3
Stage 4
Post-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 5
Stage 6
The Heinz Dilemma
A woman was near death from a special kind of cancer There was one drug that the
doctors thought might save her It was a form of radium that a druggist in the same town
had recently discovered The drug was expensive to make but the druggist was charging
ten times what the drug cost him to produce He paid $200 for the radium and charged
$2000 for a small dose of the drug The sick womans husband Heinz went to everyone
he knew to borrow the money but he could only get together about $1000 which is half
of what it cost He told the druggist that his wife was dying and asked him to sell it
cheaper or let him pay later But the druggist said No I discovered the drug and Im going
to make money from it So Heinz got desperate and broke into the mans store to steal
the drug for his wife
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Moral Development
Moral development
is the gradual development of
an individuals concept of right
or wrong ndash conscious religious
values social attitudes and
certain behaviour
Early influence
Kohlberg followed the development of moral judgment far beyond the ages
studied earlier by Piaget who also claimed that logic and morality develop
through constructive stages Looking at the philosophy of Jean Piaget and
Lawrence Kohlberg regarding why and how people justify the decisions they
make
Kohlberg amp his stage theory
Kohlberg became a professor of education and social psychology at Harvard in 1968
His book on moral development is used by teachers around the world to promote moral reasoning
This theory is a stage theory In other words everyone goes through the stages sequentially without skipping any stage
However movement through these stages are not natural movement occurs when a person notices inadequacies in his or her present way of coping with a given moral dilemma
According to stage theory people cannot understand moral reasoning more than one stage ahead of their own
Kohlbergrsquos Six Stages
Pre-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 1
Stage 2
Conventional Moral Development
Stage 3
Stage 4
Post-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 5
Stage 6
The Heinz Dilemma
A woman was near death from a special kind of cancer There was one drug that the
doctors thought might save her It was a form of radium that a druggist in the same town
had recently discovered The drug was expensive to make but the druggist was charging
ten times what the drug cost him to produce He paid $200 for the radium and charged
$2000 for a small dose of the drug The sick womans husband Heinz went to everyone
he knew to borrow the money but he could only get together about $1000 which is half
of what it cost He told the druggist that his wife was dying and asked him to sell it
cheaper or let him pay later But the druggist said No I discovered the drug and Im going
to make money from it So Heinz got desperate and broke into the mans store to steal
the drug for his wife
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Early influence
Kohlberg followed the development of moral judgment far beyond the ages
studied earlier by Piaget who also claimed that logic and morality develop
through constructive stages Looking at the philosophy of Jean Piaget and
Lawrence Kohlberg regarding why and how people justify the decisions they
make
Kohlberg amp his stage theory
Kohlberg became a professor of education and social psychology at Harvard in 1968
His book on moral development is used by teachers around the world to promote moral reasoning
This theory is a stage theory In other words everyone goes through the stages sequentially without skipping any stage
However movement through these stages are not natural movement occurs when a person notices inadequacies in his or her present way of coping with a given moral dilemma
According to stage theory people cannot understand moral reasoning more than one stage ahead of their own
Kohlbergrsquos Six Stages
Pre-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 1
Stage 2
Conventional Moral Development
Stage 3
Stage 4
Post-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 5
Stage 6
The Heinz Dilemma
A woman was near death from a special kind of cancer There was one drug that the
doctors thought might save her It was a form of radium that a druggist in the same town
had recently discovered The drug was expensive to make but the druggist was charging
ten times what the drug cost him to produce He paid $200 for the radium and charged
$2000 for a small dose of the drug The sick womans husband Heinz went to everyone
he knew to borrow the money but he could only get together about $1000 which is half
of what it cost He told the druggist that his wife was dying and asked him to sell it
cheaper or let him pay later But the druggist said No I discovered the drug and Im going
to make money from it So Heinz got desperate and broke into the mans store to steal
the drug for his wife
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Kohlberg amp his stage theory
Kohlberg became a professor of education and social psychology at Harvard in 1968
His book on moral development is used by teachers around the world to promote moral reasoning
This theory is a stage theory In other words everyone goes through the stages sequentially without skipping any stage
However movement through these stages are not natural movement occurs when a person notices inadequacies in his or her present way of coping with a given moral dilemma
According to stage theory people cannot understand moral reasoning more than one stage ahead of their own
Kohlbergrsquos Six Stages
Pre-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 1
Stage 2
Conventional Moral Development
Stage 3
Stage 4
Post-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 5
Stage 6
The Heinz Dilemma
A woman was near death from a special kind of cancer There was one drug that the
doctors thought might save her It was a form of radium that a druggist in the same town
had recently discovered The drug was expensive to make but the druggist was charging
ten times what the drug cost him to produce He paid $200 for the radium and charged
$2000 for a small dose of the drug The sick womans husband Heinz went to everyone
he knew to borrow the money but he could only get together about $1000 which is half
of what it cost He told the druggist that his wife was dying and asked him to sell it
cheaper or let him pay later But the druggist said No I discovered the drug and Im going
to make money from it So Heinz got desperate and broke into the mans store to steal
the drug for his wife
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Kohlbergrsquos Six Stages
Pre-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 1
Stage 2
Conventional Moral Development
Stage 3
Stage 4
Post-Conventional Moral Development
Stage 5
Stage 6
The Heinz Dilemma
A woman was near death from a special kind of cancer There was one drug that the
doctors thought might save her It was a form of radium that a druggist in the same town
had recently discovered The drug was expensive to make but the druggist was charging
ten times what the drug cost him to produce He paid $200 for the radium and charged
$2000 for a small dose of the drug The sick womans husband Heinz went to everyone
he knew to borrow the money but he could only get together about $1000 which is half
of what it cost He told the druggist that his wife was dying and asked him to sell it
cheaper or let him pay later But the druggist said No I discovered the drug and Im going
to make money from it So Heinz got desperate and broke into the mans store to steal
the drug for his wife
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
The Heinz Dilemma
A woman was near death from a special kind of cancer There was one drug that the
doctors thought might save her It was a form of radium that a druggist in the same town
had recently discovered The drug was expensive to make but the druggist was charging
ten times what the drug cost him to produce He paid $200 for the radium and charged
$2000 for a small dose of the drug The sick womans husband Heinz went to everyone
he knew to borrow the money but he could only get together about $1000 which is half
of what it cost He told the druggist that his wife was dying and asked him to sell it
cheaper or let him pay later But the druggist said No I discovered the drug and Im going
to make money from it So Heinz got desperate and broke into the mans store to steal
the drug for his wife
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
LEVEL I
bull Stage 1 ndash Punishment-Obedience Orientation
bull Stage 2 ndash Instrumental Relativist Orientation
LEVEL II
bull Stage 3 ndash Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
bull Stage 4 ndash Law and Order Orientation
LEVEL III
bull Stage 5 ndash Social Contract Orientation
bull Stage 6 ndash Universal Ethical Principle Orientation
Kohlbergrsquos Stages of Moral Development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
LEVEL I
Pre-conventional Morality
people at this stagedo not reallyunderstand theconventions rulesof a society
4 ndash 10 yrs old
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Level 1- Stages
Level One
Pre-
Conventional
Morality
Stage 1 Punishment-
Obedience Orientation
bullI should get my own way
bullTo get rewards and avoid punishments
Stage 2 Instrumental
Relativist Orientation
bullI should do what Irsquom told
bullTo stay out of trouble
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
STAGE 1
Punishment ndash Obedience Orientation
Consequences of
acts determine
whether theyrsquore
good or bad
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Stage 1
Obedience amp Punishment
Earliest stage of moral development
Common in young children
They see rules as fixed and absolute
Morality is external
At this stage children see rules as fixed and
absolute
Obeying the rules is important because it is a
means to avoid punishment
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Heinz should
steal the drug
because if he
doesnt then his
wife might die
Possible Stage 1
responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should
not steal the
drug because
he might be
caught and sent
to jail
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
STAGE 2 Instrumental Relativist Orientation
The ethics of ldquoWhatrsquos in it for
merdquo
Obeying rules and exchanging
favors are judged in terms of
the benefit to the individual
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Stage 2
Individualism and Exchange
At this stage of moral development
children account for individual points
of view and judge actions based on
how they serve individual needs
Reciprocity is possible at this point in
moral development but only if it
serves ones own interests
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Possible Stage 2 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
It is right for Heinz
to steal the drug
because it can
cure his wife and
then she can take
care of his home
The doctor scientist
had spent lots of
money and many
years of his life to
develop the cure so
its not fair to him if
Heinz stole the drug
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
LEVEL II
Conventional Morality
People at this stage
conform to the
conventions rules
of a society
10 ndash 13 yrs old
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Level 2 Stages
Level Two
Conventional
Morality
Stage 3 Good Boy-Nice
Girl Orientation
bullI should look out for myself but be fair to
those who are fair to me
bullWhatrsquos in it for me
Stage 4 Law and Order
Orientation
bullI should be a nice person and live up to the
expectations of people I know and care
about
bullSo others will think well of me and I can
think well of myself
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
STAGE 3
Good Boy ndash Nice Girl Orientation
Ethical decisions are
based on concern for
or the opinions of
others
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Stage 3
Interpersonal Relationships
Often referred to as the good boy-good girl orientation
At this stage children who are by now usually entering their teens see morality as more than simple deals
Stage of moral development is focused on living up to social expectations and roles (of the family and community) There is an emphasis on conformity being nice and behave in good ways
Good behaviour means having good motives and interpersonal feelings such as love empathy trust and concern for others
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Possible Stage 3 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Yes Heinz should steal the drug He
probably will go to jail for a short time for
stealing but his family will think he is a
good husband
Brown the police officer should report
that he saw Heinz behaving suspiciously
and running away from the laboratory
because his boss would be pleased
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
STAGE 4
Law and Order Orientation
Right behavior consists in
doing ones duty showing
respect for authority and
maintaining the given
social order for its own
sake
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Stage 4
Maintaining Social Order
People begin to consider society as a whole when making judgment
Law and order
focus on maintaining law and order and obeying laws
Consequences of breaking the law
Stage 1 and stage 4 are giving the same response
Similarity is they both agree that breaking the law is wrong
Differences is for Stage 1 the child canrsquot explain why it is wrong while Stage 4 the adults are able to deliberate
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Possible Stage 4 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
As her husband Heinz
has a duty to save his
wifes life so he should
steal the drug
But its wrong to steal
so Heinz should be
prepared to accept the
penalty for breaking the
law
The judge should sentence
Heinz to jail Stealing is
against the law He should
not make any exceptions
even though Heinz wife is
dying If the judge does not
sentence Heinz to jail then
others may think its right to
steal and there will be chaos
in the society
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
LEVEL III
Post-Conventional Morality
The moral principles
that underline the
conventions of a
society are
understood
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Level 3- Stages
Level Three
Post-Conventional
Morality
Stage 5 Social Contract
Orientation
bullI should fulfill my responsibilities to
the social or value system I feel part
of
bullTo keep the system from falling
apart and to maintain self-respect as
somebody who meets my obligations
Stage 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
bullI should show the greatest possible
respect for the rights and dignity of
every individual person and should
support a system that protects human
rights
bullThe obligation of conscience to act
in accordance with the principle of
respect for all human beings
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Social Contract Orientation
Rules and laws represent
agreements among people
about behavior that
benefits society Rules can
be changed when they no
longer meet societyrsquos
needs
STAGE 5
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Stage 5
Social Contract and Individual Rights
At this stage people begin to account for
the differing values opinions and beliefs
of other people
Rules of law are important for maintaining
a society but members of the society
should agree upon these standards
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Possible Stage 5 responses
to Heinz Dilemma
Heinz should steal the drug because everyone has
the right to life regardless of the law against
stealing Should Heinz be caught and prosecuted for
stealing then the law (against stealing) needs to be
reinterpreted because a persons life is at stake
The doctor scientists decision is despicable but his
right to fair compensation (for his discovery) must be
maintained Therefore Heinz should not steal the
drug
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
STAGE 6 Universal Ethical
Principle Orientation
Right is defined by the decision of
conscience in accord with self-chosen
ethical principles appealing to logical
comprehensiveness universality and
consistency
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Stage 6
Universal Principles
Based upon universal ethical principles and abstract
reasoning
Based on respect for universal principle and the demands of
individual conscience
Takes an idealized look at how people might coordinate their
interests
At this stage people follow these internalized principles of
justice even if they conflict with laws and rules
Define the principles by which agreement will be most just
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Criticisms
Does moral reasoning necessarily lead to moral behavior
Kohlbergs theory is concerned with moral thinking but there is a big difference between knowing what we oughtto do versus our actual actions
Is justice the only aspect of moral reasoning we should consider
Critics have pointed out that Kohlbergs theory of moral development overemphasizes the concept as justice when making moral choices Factors such as compassion caring and other interpersonal feelings may play an important part in moral reasoning
Does Kohlbergs theory overemphasize Western philosophy
Individualistic cultures emphasize personal rights while collectivist cultures stress the importance of society and community Eastern cultures may have different moral outlooks that Kohlbergs theory does not account for
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
Every personrsquos moral reasoning develops through the
same stages in the same order
People pass through the same stages at different rates
Development is gradual and continuous rather than
sudden and discrete
Once a stage is attained a person continues to reason
at that stage and rarely regress to a lower stage
Intervention usually results in moving only to the next
higher stage of moral reasoning
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
ACTIVITY
For the following moral dilemma describe a response which
might be given by someone in each of the first four stages of
Kohlbergs theory
Jill goes shopping one day with her best friend Sidh Sidh tries
on a jumper and walks out of the shop wearing it under her
jacket Jill is left to face the stores security person who insists
that Jill names Sidh and gives Ss address The manager of the
store tells Jill she will be in serious trouble if she does not
disclose Sidhs name and address What should Jill do
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development
What would you do
Consider your own experience ndash Where are you
according to the stages of Moral development