Arrange the following stages of moral development in the correct order
(A) Social order maintaining

(B) Instrumental purpose

(C) Heteronomous morality

(D) Social contract orientation

(E) Universal ethical principles

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

Correct option is D

The correct sequence follows Lawrence Kohlberg’s Theory of Moral Development, which consists of three levels divided into six stages:
1. Heteronomous morality (C) – Stage 1 (Pre-conventional level):
· Morality is based on obedience and avoiding punishment.
· Children believe rules are fixed and absolute.
2. Instrumental purpose (B) – Stage 2 (Pre-conventional level):
· Morality is guided by self-interest and reciprocity ("You help me, I help you").
· Right actions serve personal needs.
3. Social order maintaining (A) – Stage 4 (Conventional level):
· Moral reasoning is based on law and order; people believe in maintaining social rules for stability.
· Following rules and respecting authority become essential.
4. Social contract orientation (D) – Stage 5 (Post-conventional level):
· People recognize that laws are based on social agreements and should serve the greatest good.
· Moral reasoning extends beyond societal norms to principles of justice and rights.
5. Universal ethical principles (E) – Stage 6 (Post-conventional level):
· Morality is based on universal ethical principles like justice, human rights, and equality.
· Individuals act according to self-chosen moral principles, even if they conflict with laws.
Information Booster:
· Kohlberg’s theory suggests that moral development progresses from self-interest to societal rules and finally to universal principles.
· Higher levels of moral reasoning involve abstract thinking and ethical considerations beyond legal norms.