Section 2.6 Moral development theory

1.3. Level 3: Post-Conventional Morality

Focus: Decisions guided by higher ethical principles and individual rights beyond societal laws. Individual judgment is based on self-chosen principles, and moral reasoning is based on individual rights and justice. According to Kohlberg this level of moral reasoning is as far as most people get.

Stage 5: Social contract and individual rights. The child/individual becomes aware that while rules/laws might exist for the good of the greatest number, there are times when they will work against the interest of particular individuals. The issues are not always clear-cut.

Stage 6: Universal principles. People at this stage have developed their own set of moral guidelines which may or may not fit the law. The principles apply to everyone. E.g., human rights, justice, and equality.

NB: The person will be prepared to act to defend these principles even if it means going against the rest of society in the process and having to pay for the consequences of disapproval and or imprisonment. Kohlberg doubted few people reached this stage.