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According to Kohlberg's stages in the development of moral reasoning, at which level would he likely view Kyle's moral reasoning?

1) Preconventional level
2) Conventional level
3) Postconventional level
4) Cannot be determined

User Hansy
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Final answer:

Without further context about Kyle's reasoning, we cannot determine at which level of Kohlberg's stages his moral reasoning falls. Kohlberg's theory includes preconventional, conventional, and postconventional levels. Carol Gilligan later criticized the theory for potential gender bias.

Step-by-step explanation:

According to Kohlberg's stages in the development of moral reasoning, it is difficult to determine at which level Kyle's moral reasoning lies without more information regarding his thought process or decision-making criteria. Kohlberg's theory consists of three main levels:

  • Preconventional level: Typically seen in young children, this stage is based on understanding through senses and is motivated by avoiding punishment and seeking rewards.
  • Conventional level: Generally develops during adolescence. Here, individuals consider society's views of right and wrong, often adhering to rules and laws to gain social approval.
  • Postconventional level: Individuals reach this stage later, if at all, and it involves abstract thinking, recognizing that legality and morality don't always match, and prioritizing moral principles over specific rules, such as the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

Carol Gilligan critiqued Kohlberg's theory for potential gender bias, suggesting that moral reasoning may differ between genders, with boys focusing more on a justice perspective and girls on a care and responsibility perspective.

In Option C, children begin to consider what society considers moral and immoral in the conventional level of Kohlberg's moral development.

User Aleister
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