Which theory outlines the stages of pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional morality?

Which theory outlines the stages of pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional morality?

• A. Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development
• B. Autonomy
• C. Social literacy skills
• D. Emotional literacy skills

Answer: (A)

The answer identifies a structured theory of moral reasoning that describes three levels—pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional—that people move through as they develop morally. This framework, developed by Kohlberg, uses moral dilemmas to explore why someone justifies a decision, not just what the decision is. At the pre-conventional level, reasoning centers on avoiding punishment or seeking personal gain. At the conventional level, judgment aims to follow rules and maintain social order. At the post-conventional level, reasoning rests on abstract principles and universal ethical standards, even when they conflict with laws or social expectations. Concepts like Autonomy, or skills such as Social literacy or Emotional literacy, aren’t theories of moral development; they refer to independence or general competencies rather than stages of moral reasoning.

The answer identifies a structured theory of moral reasoning that describes three levels—pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional—that people move through as they develop morally. This framework, developed by Kohlberg, uses moral dilemmas to explore why someone justifies a decision, not just what the decision is. At the pre-conventional level, reasoning centers on avoiding punishment or seeking personal gain. At the conventional level, judgment aims to follow rules and maintain social order. At the post-conventional level, reasoning rests on abstract principles and universal ethical standards, even when they conflict with laws or social expectations. Concepts like Autonomy, or skills such as Social literacy or Emotional literacy, aren’t theories of moral development; they refer to independence or general competencies rather than stages of moral reasoning.