Which stage in Kohlberg's model is associated with applying universal ethical principles to evaluate morality?

Which stage in Kohlberg's model is associated with applying universal ethical principles to evaluate morality?

• A. Stage 2
• B. Stage 4
• C. Stage 6
• D. Stage 1

Answer: (C)

Rational moral judgment at the highest level in Kohlberg’s model is about applying universal ethical principles to evaluate right and wrong. This means deciding based on abstract ideas like justice, equality, and human rights that should hold true for everyone, even if a law or social expectation would suggest a different action. In this stage, morality is guided by principled conscience and consistent ethical standards rather than by rules, rewards, or social approval. Earlier approaches in the model focus on different motivations: obeying authorities to avoid punishment, pursuing personal gains, conforming to what others think, or upholding laws and social order. None of those centers on universal principles as the primary guide for moral choices, which is why they don’t fit this description.

Rational moral judgment at the highest level in Kohlberg’s model is about applying universal ethical principles to evaluate right and wrong. This means deciding based on abstract ideas like justice, equality, and human rights that should hold true for everyone, even if a law or social expectation would suggest a different action. In this stage, morality is guided by principled conscience and consistent ethical standards rather than by rules, rewards, or social approval.

Earlier approaches in the model focus on different motivations: obeying authorities to avoid punishment, pursuing personal gains, conforming to what others think, or upholding laws and social order. None of those centers on universal principles as the primary guide for moral choices, which is why they don’t fit this description.