• 15 Marks

CSME – May 2023 – L1 – SB – Q6 – Ethics in Business

Application of Kohlberg's moral development stages in ethical decisions and critiques of the theory.

Using Kohlberg’s stages of moral development, identify and explain the reasons why individuals make their decisions when faced with moral dilemmas.

(a) Identify and explain the reasons why individuals make their decisions when faced with a moral dilemma using Kohlberg’s stages of moral development. (12 Marks)

(b) Explain the criticisms of Kohlberg’s stages of moral development. (3 Marks)

  1. (a) Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development in Ethical Decision-Making
    • Explanation: Kohlberg’s theory divides moral development into six stages across three levels:
      • Pre-conventional Level: Decisions are based on consequences, avoiding punishment, and seeking rewards.
        • Stage 1: Obedience and punishment orientation.
        • Stage 2: Self-interest orientation.
      • Conventional Level: Actions are judged by societal norms and the expectations of others.
        • Stage 3: Interpersonal accord and conformity.
        • Stage 4: Authority and social-order maintaining orientation.
      • Post-conventional Level: Ethical principles guide decisions beyond societal rules.
        • Stage 5: Social contract orientation.
        • Stage 6: Universal ethical principles.
  2. (b) Criticisms of Kohlberg’s Theory
    • Explanation: Criticisms include:
      • Cultural Bias: Based primarily on Western moral reasoning, possibly not applicable globally.
      • Gender Bias: Kohlberg’s focus on justice may overlook aspects like care and compassion, emphasized by Carol Gilligan.
      • Lack of Empirical Evidence: Some argue the theory lacks sufficient empirical support for its stages.
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