Who is Lawrence Kohlberg: Lawrence Kohlberg, a visionary thinker from the late 20th century (1927–1987), left a mark on the study of moral development. His ideas, deeply rooted in the cognitive theories of Piaget, set the stage for a comprehensive exploration of how people grapple with ethical dilemmas. There are some limitations (related to gender) in this theory, so read along to find out more about L.K.
Key Ideas: At the core of Kohlberg’s theory is the belief that morality isn’t a fixed concept but a dynamic interplay of reflection, debate, and the courage to question established rules. It revolves around the ability to empathise, understand others’ feelings, and cultivate sympathy. These emotional and cognitive skills, Kohlberg posited, are crucial for evolving into a compassionate, responsible adult who can be an active contributor to society.
Stages: Kohlberg delineated six stages of moral development, grouped into three levels:
Level 1: Preconventional Morality
- Obedience and Punishment Orientation: Children want to avoid punishment; It is their primary focus.
- Individualism and Exchange: Actions are driven by self-interest and the desire for personal gain.
Level 2: Conventional Morality 3. Interpersonal Relationships: Conforming to social norms and seeking approval becomes crucial.
- Maintaining Social Order: Prioritizing rules and societal order is paramount.
Level 3: Postconventional Morality 5. Social Contract and Individual Rights: Recognition of social contracts and individual rights takes center stage. What does it mean? I do the right thing , because it is the right thing to do for the society.
- Universal Principles: Guided by universal ethical principles and a commitment to justice.
These stages, rather than being tied to age, reflect qualitative shifts in cognitive development. Progression is not linear, and individuals may vary in the time taken to move from one stage to the next.
Implications for Early Childhood Educators: We need to have professional knowledge about child’s development, so it is important to know about theories relevant to moral development too. Understanding Kohlberg’s stages provides educators with valuable insights. It informs educational practices, allowing us to tailor our teaching approaches to foster moral reasoning skills in children. Create learning environment that encourages empathy and thoughtful consideration of ethical issues. I use books and puppets for that.
https://youtu.be/363249RPxPo?si=UgcOsSW-tt-bDNFm
Critique: While Kohlberg’s theory has been influential, it’s not without criticism:
- Cultural Bias: The theory’s potential bias toward Western cultures raises concerns about its universal applicability.
- Gender Bias: Critics argue that the theory may not fully capture the moral development experiences of females, given its male-centric focus. I will talk more about another theorist who challenged Kohlberg and considered a “female” moral response.
- Linear Progression: The suggestion of a linear progression has been challenged, as real-life moral development is often more complex and multifaceted.
- Overemphasis on Reasoning: Kohlberg’s emphasis on moral reasoning neglects the role of emotions and intuitions in decision-making. Some people (and children) are just more intuitive.
What do you think about Kohlberg theory?
Does it resonate with you?
