Discussion 1: Theories of Moral Development
In the view of Kolhberg, an individual develops their sense of morality progressively in three distinct stages that mainly rely on our cognitive growth. He asserted that one’s moral principles are dependent on these three stages. His theory advanced the views of Jean Piaget who upheld the belief that the brain cognitive aspect greatly influenced an individual’s moral growth. He argued that each of the three stages, namely; pre-conventional, conventional and post-conventional determined their perception of morality at their adulthood (Gibbs, 2013, p. 84). For example, at a young age, a child’s moral principles greatly influenced by the external environment while at a young age, societal values and social organization’s standards mold their perception of morality. However, at adulthood one’s morality is based on principles and values.
For example, a child at a young age is taught against killing another person. However, at the conventional stage, the individuals understand that there is some unique circumstance under which one may be forced to commit murder such as self-defense although they still relatively objected to the new moral understanding. At maturity, it becomes clear especially if they join law enforcement carriers that killing another person may be morally right if it helps prevent them from harming another person. Critics of the theory challenge the emphasis of theory on justice excluding other human values. Gilligan argues that the theory is androcentric thus overlooks some critical issues of morality development.
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Discussion 2: Carol Gilligan’s Moral development for Girls
She contrasts Kohlberg’s theory by arguing that women view moral issues as a conflict of individual responsibilities rather than a competition of rights. As such, girls develop their morality based on the context of relationships and ethics of care. Their sense of morality is not tied to rules but rather the relationship they develop with other people (Ponce, 1987, p. 104). In essence, their understanding of morality develops as they become aware of their individuality.
References
Gibbs, J. C. (2013). Kohlberg’s Theory. Moral Development and Reality , 81-97. doi:10.1093/acprof:osobl/9780199976171.003.0004
Ponce, D. (1987). Gilligan's Views on Moral Development. Residential Treatment For Children & Youth , 4 (4), 103-106. doi:10.1300/j007v04n04_10
