Correct option is B
According to Lawrence Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development (1969), moral reasoning progresses through six sequential stages across three levels. (d) Instrumental purpose orientation (Stage 2, Pre-conventional level) emerges first, where morality is based on self-interest and reciprocal exchange ("you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours"). (a) Morality of interpersonal cooperation (Stage 3, Conventional level) follows, emphasizing maintaining good relationships and meeting social expectations. (c) Social order maintaining orientation (Stage 4, Conventional level) develops next, focusing on upholding laws and social systems for societal functioning. Finally, (b) Universal ethical principle orientation (Stage 6, Post-conventional level) represents the highest stage, guided by self-chosen abstract ethical principles transcending societal laws.
Information Booster:
● Kohlberg's theory extended Piaget's cognitive-developmental approach to moral reasoning through longitudinal research using moral dilemmas like the Heinz scenario.
● Pre-conventional level (Stages 1-2) characterizes children's moral reasoning based on punishment avoidance and self-interest.
● Conventional level (Stages 3-4) reflects adolescent/adult conformity to social expectations and respect for authority and law.
● Post-conventional level (Stages 5-6) represents principled moral reasoning based on social contracts and universal ethical principles, rarely achieved.
● Stage 6 has been empirically questioned as few individuals consistently demonstrate universal ethical principle reasoning across situations.
● Gilligan (1982) criticized Kohlberg's theory for gender bias, proposing an alternative "ethics of care" emphasizing relational morality.
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