Kohlberg's theory of moral development uses the Heinz dilemma — a thought experiment in which a man, Heinz, must decide whether to steal an unaffordable drug to save his dying wife — to illustrate the evolution of moral reasoning. This framework, divided into three levels with two stages, highlights how individuals' understanding of right and wrong becomes increasingly complex.
Pre-Conventional Level
At the pre-conventional level, morality is primarily driven by personal consequences. In Stage 1, Obedience and Punishment, actions are judged based on avoiding negative outcomes. For example, a child might argue that Heinz should not steal the drug because he could go to jail, associating the action with punishment. Stage 2, Individual Interest, shifts the focus to personal benefits. A child at this stage might reason that Heinz should steal the drug because saving his wife benefits him.
Conventional Level
As individuals mature, societal expectations and relationships shape their moral reasoning. Stage 3, Interpersonal Relationships, emphasizes social roles and approval. Someone might argue that Heinz should steal the drug to fulfill societal expectations of a good husband, demonstrating care for his wife. Stage 4, Law and Order, values, rules, and societal stability. From this perspective, Heinz should not steal because breaking the law disrupts the order that benefits society.
Post-Conventional Level
The post-conventional level represents the most advanced moral reasoning, focusing on universal values and principles. In Stage 5, Social Contract, decisions balance individual rights with the greater societal good. For instance, someone might argue that saving a life precedes property rights, justifying Heinz's theft. In Stage 6, Universal Ethical Principles, morality is guided by fundamental principles such as justice and equality. From this standpoint, Heinz should not steal, as it violates the principle of fairness, even if it results in personal loss.
Kohlberg's theory demonstrates the progression of moral reasoning, though not all individuals reach the post-conventional stages. The Heinz dilemma is a valuable tool for examining these shifts and the complexity of ethical decision-making.
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.
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