From Halves to Wholes in Moral Developmental Theory: How a New Stage Taxonomy Integrates Kohlberg’s So-called Transitional Stages

Abstract

Moral reasoning that does not fit into the framework of Kohlberg stages is often scored at transitional stages. Those subjects are supposed to be not in a state of equilibrium, but rather one of internal conflict. The present article challenges this view, arguing that ‘Stage 4 1/2’-reasoning is no more inconsistent than any other type of moral reasoning and that ‘Stage 4 1/2’ should be regarded as a stage in its own right. This is possible within the framework of a new stage taxonomy which accommodates ‘Stage 4 1/2’ as a distinct cornerstone in the architecture of moral cognition.

Keywords

• Moral Cognition, Structural Development, Transitional Stages.

Ahlakî Gelişim Teorisinde Yarımlardan Bütünlere -Yeni Bir Basamak Sınışandırması Kohlberg'in Geçiş Basamaklar Olarak Adlandırdığı Basamaklarla Nasıl Bütünleştirilebilir?-

Abstract

Kohlberg basamakları çerçevesine uymayan ahlâkî yargı (moral reasoning) sıklıkla geçiş basamaklarında değerlendirilmektedir. Bu konuların bir denge basamağında olmayıp, daha çok iç çatışma düzeyinde oldukları farz edilmektedir. Bu makalede, sözü edilen görüşe karşı çıkılmakta, 4 1/2 yargısının diğer herhangi bir ahlakî yargı tipinden daha tutarsız olmadığı ve Basamak 4 1/2'un ayrı bir basamak olarak kabulü gerektiği savunulmaktadır. Bu kabul ancak; ahlakî biliş mimarisinde ayrı bir köşe taşı olarak Basamak 4 1/2' u içine alan yeni bir basamak sınışandırması çerçevesi içinde mümkün olacaktır.

Keywords

• Ahlakî Biliş, Yapısal Gelişim, Geçiş Basamakları

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