Which stage of Kohlberg's theory emphasizes acting to maintain laws and social order?

Which stage of Kohlberg's theory emphasizes acting to maintain laws and social order?

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

Answer: (B)

In Kohlberg's theory, the stage that emphasizes acting to maintain laws and social order is the Society-maintaining orientation. Here, moral reasoning centers on fulfilling duties and following rules because they uphold the functioning of society. People at this stage believe laws and authority are important for keeping order, safety, and social stability, and they act to uphold them even when there’s no direct personal gain. This contrasts with the stage focused on seeking approval from others (good boy–nice girl) and the stage driven by self-interest and reciprocity (instrumental relativist). At the most advanced level, moral reasoning shifts to universal ethical principles that apply beyond specific laws.

In Kohlberg's theory, the stage that emphasizes acting to maintain laws and social order is the Society-maintaining orientation. Here, moral reasoning centers on fulfilling duties and following rules because they uphold the functioning of society. People at this stage believe laws and authority are important for keeping order, safety, and social stability, and they act to uphold them even when there’s no direct personal gain. This contrasts with the stage focused on seeking approval from others (good boy–nice girl) and the stage driven by self-interest and reciprocity (instrumental relativist). At the most advanced level, moral reasoning shifts to universal ethical principles that apply beyond specific laws.