Question

Compare conventional and postconventional morality in Kohlberg's theory.

Answer 1

Lawrence Kohlberg was an American psychologist who developed a theory to explain development of morality in individuals. This theory was called as Kohlberg's stages of moral development. His explained the development of morality in individuals through three stages namely:

• Preconventional stage
• Conventional stage
• Post conventional stage

Let's compare the conventional and post conventional stages of morality according to Kohlberg 's theory:

Conventional stage

Post conventional stage

Conventional morality is characterised by judgement of mirality of any actions or behaviour by comparing them with society' s standard of code of behaviour and morality. It is typically seen in adolescents and adults. Rules, ethics, laws are viewed as unchangeable and absolute dichotomies of life Society's perception of morality and code of conduct is absolutely obeyed and seldom questioned.

Post conventional morality is characterised by one's own individual ethical principles and rules taking precedence over society's view of right and wrong. Many people never reach this stage of moral reasoning. Rules, ethicse laws are view divas necessary but changeable, flowing mechanics in life. Society's perception of morality and code of conduct is disobeyed if it doesntd align with the individual's principles of ethics and often questioned.