Lawrence Kohlberg developed the most influential theory of moral development. To assess moral reasoning, he presented individuals with hypothetical moral dilemmas. Kohlberg concluded that it was not the answers that the individuals provided to these moral dilemmas that were critical. Rather, it was the reasoning that they used to justify their answers that was significant.
Summarize the dilemma that you completed, as well as your responses to the questions.
Question
2
Using TABLE 9.5 in your textbook, determine your stage of moral development. Be sure to use examples from your responses to support your answer.
Using TABLE 9.5 in your textbook, determine your stage of moral development. Be sure to use examples from your responses to support your answer.
Question
3
According to your textbook, moral reasoning does not necessarily translate into moral behavior. In the 1980s, America got a first-hand look at the Jimmy Swaggart scandal. Swaggart was a popular televangelist who founded a megachurch called Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. In two separate incidents, Swaggart was found with prostitutes, events which ultimately led to divorce and the downfall of his ministry. Provide an example of another public figure who emphasized high moral standards, but was caught engaging in immoral behavior. You can select a politician, celebrity, sports figure, etc.
According to your textbook, moral reasoning does not necessarily translate into moral behavior. In the 1980s, America got a first-hand look at the Jimmy Swaggart scandal. Swaggart was a popular televangelist who founded a megachurch called Jimmy Swaggart Ministries. In two separate incidents, Swaggart was found with prostitutes, events which ultimately led to divorce and the downfall of his ministry. Provide an example of another public figure who emphasized high moral standards, but was caught engaging in immoral behavior. You can select a politician, celebrity, sports figure, etc.
Question
4
Provide two criticisms of Kholberg’s theory, according to research presented in your text.
Question
5
In Kholberg’s _____ level, moral reasoning is guided by external consequences.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Question
6
According to Kholberg’s _____ level, moral reasoning is guided by internalized legal and moral principles that protect the rights of all members of society.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Question
7
Derrik’s moral reasoning is guided by conformity to the social roles, rules, and expectations that he has learned and internalized. Derrik’s reasoning is consistent with Kohlberg’s ____ level.
A.
B.
C.
D.
Question
8
Do men and women use different criteria in making moral judgments? Explain your answer, citing research from your textbook.
According to psychologist Carol Gilligan, because Kohlberg’s early research was conducted entirely on male participants, his theory does not adequately address moral reasoning among women. Gilligan argued that Kohlberg’s theory is based on an ethic of individual rights and justice, which is a common perspective for men. Women, in contrast, emphasize an ethic of care and responsibility in their moral reasoning. However, follow-up research indicates only slight differences between males and females. Moreover, research reveals that both men and women combine care and justice in their moral reasoning.