Which stage explains the influence of moral values on an individual's thought?

Which stage explains the influence of moral values on an individual's thought?

• A. Good boy-nice girl orientation
• B. Society-maintaining orientation
• C. Instrumental relativist orientation
• D. Universal ethical principle orientation

Answer: (B)

The main idea is how moral values guide thinking within Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, specifically the stage where judgments are made to uphold social order. In this society-maintaining orientation, individuals view rules, laws, and duties as essential to keeping society functioning. Moral reasoning focuses on whether actions align with maintaining social stability and the common good, rather than merely seeking personal gain or aiming to please others. It represents a level where the value placed on social norms and duties shapes what is considered right or wrong. The other options fit earlier or later patterns of moral reasoning: good boy-nice girl orientation centers on seeking approval from others; instrumental relativist orientation emphasizes self-interest and reciprocity; universal ethical principle orientation involves abstract, principled reasoning beyond specific societal rules.

The main idea is how moral values guide thinking within Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, specifically the stage where judgments are made to uphold social order. In this society-maintaining orientation, individuals view rules, laws, and duties as essential to keeping society functioning. Moral reasoning focuses on whether actions align with maintaining social stability and the common good, rather than merely seeking personal gain or aiming to please others. It represents a level where the value placed on social norms and duties shapes what is considered right or wrong.

The other options fit earlier or later patterns of moral reasoning: good boy-nice girl orientation centers on seeking approval from others; instrumental relativist orientation emphasizes self-interest and reciprocity; universal ethical principle orientation involves abstract, principled reasoning beyond specific societal rules.