Stage 1: Right is defined as staying out of trouble. Trouble is usually physical punishment. For example: it's wrong to steal because you go to jail.
Stage 2: The right thing to do is what will meet my individual needs. At stage two people consider others if making a deal will benefit them, personally. For example, it's right to steal because I wanted the tapes. If you don't tell, I'll get you one, too.
Stage 3: Right is defined as being a good person, seeking the approval of people who are important to me. I figure out what's right and wrong by deciding what will help me to hang on to my important relationship(s). For example, it's bad to steal from a friend because they won't like me anymore and I'll get a reputation as a thief.
Stage 4: Right is defined as that which will maintain the system of rules, roles and relationship. Keeping an orderly flow in society is what is important. For example, it's bad to steal because it violates a law that's basic to society. If we didn't have rules and laws we couldn't live the kinds of lives we are free to live within our society.
Stage 5: Right is defined as living by self chosen principles. When those principles conflict with the law, principles are chosen. There is an obligation to apply the principles in a moral dilemma. The most common principles at stage 5 include the principle. of equality (everybody gets the same amount); the principle of equity (each person gets what (s)he deserves); the utilitarian principle (the greatest good for the greatest number), etc. For example, it's wrong to steal from even a large, insured department store because everyone should have an equal opportunity to make a fair profit.
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updated 9/99