Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development

Kohlberg's theory of moral development explores how individuals reason about moral issues.

The Heinz dilemma, a central example, involves a man deciding whether to steal a drug to save his dying wife.

Kohlberg used this dilemma to study moral reasoning across three distinct levels.

The first is the pre-conventional level, which focuses on childhood reasoning. At this level, moral decisions are based on consequences like rewards or punishments.

For example, a child might think Heinz should not steal the drug to avoid getting in trouble or making others angry.

Second is the conventional level, emphasizing adolescent reasoning, where individuals align their reasoning with societal norms or roles.

Adolescents may believe Heinz should steal because a good husband should protect his wife or, conversely, that he should not because stealing breaks the law.

Finally, the post-conventional level centers on adult reasoning and is guided by personal moral principles that transcend laws or conventions.

Individuals at this level might argue that saving a life is more important than obeying a law.