Kohlberg’s Model of Moral Development

Punishment and Obedience

Following rules out of fear of “pain” (do this or else) app. 2-5 yrs

Instrument and Relativity

Morality is relative -- other’s are manipulated, through “right” behavior, to provide what the individual wants (look what a nice job I did Mommy) 6-9+ yrs

Interpersonal Concordance

“Going along” to “get along” -- responsive to peer pressure, desire to be liked (some people develop no further – often combines with “I&R” above)

Law and Order

Recognition of responsibility to the larger community -- disobedience is viewed as “wrong” (identified as “adult” behavior)

Social Contract

A belief in a higher moral authority -- government is viewed as serving the will of the people -- often become involved in protests, etc. since they view morality in terms of social values (however, social protests need not indicate this level since “I&R” peer pressure may produce the same behavior. Does the individual offer clear rationale or does he merely “parrot” sound-bites?)

Universal Ethical Principles

Understanding of ethical principles that transcend social values -- few people achieve this stage -- internalization of these principles and, often, an unwillingness to compromise (a clear level above “SC” since this often involves sacrifice – see Gandhi)

I usually add the notion of “Suffering an Epiphany,” referring to the rare individual who has a clearer understanding of the cosmos and life’s purpose than anyone else, but cannot easily explain his “understanding” in terms others can understand (hence, “suffer an epiphany”)