Which statement identifies a postconventional stage in Kohlberg's theory of moral development?

Which statement identifies a postconventional stage in Kohlberg's theory of moral development?

• A. Social contract orientation
• B. Good boy-nice girl orientation
• C. Universal ethical principle orientation
• D. Instrument relativist orientation

Answer: (C)

Postconventional morality is about reasoning from abstract, universal principles of justice and rights rather than just following rules or trying to please others. The statement that describes universal ethical principles fits this level best because it shows decisions guided by broad, principled standards—principles that apply to all people, even when they conflict with laws or social expectations. This is the highest stage in Kohlberg’s model, where actions are judged by internalized ethics like fairness, equality, and respect for human rights. By contrast, good boy–nice girl orientation reflects trying to gain approval from others (conventional level), and instrumental relativist orientation centers on self-interest and reciprocity (preconventional level). Social contract orientation is also postconventional, focusing on rules and rights within a social contract, but universal ethical principles specifically emphasize applying overarching, principled standards beyond any particular agreement.

Postconventional morality is about reasoning from abstract, universal principles of justice and rights rather than just following rules or trying to please others. The statement that describes universal ethical principles fits this level best because it shows decisions guided by broad, principled standards—principles that apply to all people, even when they conflict with laws or social expectations. This is the highest stage in Kohlberg’s model, where actions are judged by internalized ethics like fairness, equality, and respect for human rights.

By contrast, good boy–nice girl orientation reflects trying to gain approval from others (conventional level), and instrumental relativist orientation centers on self-interest and reciprocity (preconventional level). Social contract orientation is also postconventional, focusing on rules and rights within a social contract, but universal ethical principles specifically emphasize applying overarching, principled standards beyond any particular agreement.