Final answer:
The correct answer is e. conventional level. Managers typically operate at this level, where they conform to societal rules and norms to determine moral actions within the organizational context.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development, the great majority of managers operate at the conventional level. This level is associated with individuals who are increasingly aware of others' feelings and societal rules. They consider what society deems moral and immoral, often adhering to laws and societal norms to determine what is "good" or "bad". It is at this stage where the concern for self aligns with a broader concern for society and adherence to social rules and laws, such as what is observed in most organizational environments.
While some individuals may reach the postconventional level, where they begin to think of morality in more abstract terms and recognize that legality and morality do not always align, this stage is less commonly demonstrated in everyday management. The preconventional level, which is focused on self-interest and response to punishment and reward, is typically surpassed by managers who must work within and uphold the framework of organizational and societal norms.
Therefore, the correct answer is e. conventional level.