Learn Before
Stage 5: Social Contract
The fifth stage of Kohlberg's theory, the Social Contract stage, is the first part of post-conventional morality. At this stage, behavior is driven by an understanding of the balance between social order and individual rights. Individuals recognize that laws are social contracts that should be followed, but can be challenged or changed if they infringe upon fundamental human rights.
0
1
Tags
Clinical Practice of Psychology
Psychology
Social Science
Empirical Science
Science
Ch.9 Lifespan Development - Psychology @ OpenStax
Psychology @ OpenStax
Introduction to Psychology @ OpenStax Course
OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook
OpenStax
Related
Stage 5: Social Contract
Stage 6: Universal Ethics
A doctor working in a remote, under-resourced clinic has a limited supply of a life-saving vaccine during a deadly epidemic. According to official guidelines, the vaccine must be given to frontline workers first. However, a child in the village is critically ill and will die without the vaccine, while the available frontline workers are all currently healthy and at low immediate risk. The doctor chooses to give the last dose to the sick child, violating the official guidelines. Which of the following justifications for the doctor's action best demonstrates a moral reasoning guided by broad, self-chosen ethical principles?
A journalist uncovers evidence of significant government corruption that could destabilize the country if made public. The law in their country strictly forbids publishing such information, classifying it as treason. After careful consideration, the journalist publishes the story, arguing that the public's right to know and the universal principle of holding leaders accountable are more important than obeying a law they see as unjust. This journalist's reasoning is most characteristic of which level of moral development?