Who proposed the theory of moral development based on stages?

The theory of moral development proposed by Lawrence Kohlberg is based on a systematic framework that outlines how individuals progress through different stages of moral reasoning. Kohlberg's theory builds on the foundation laid by Jean Piaget, focusing specifically on the evolution of morality from childhood into adulthood.

Kohlberg identified three main levels of moral development: pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional. Each of these levels contains two stages, making a total of six stages that demonstrate how moral reasoning matures. For instance, at the pre-conventional level, a child's moral reasoning is primarily driven by obedience to avoid punishment and by the personal benefits of actions. Conversely, at the post-conventional level, individuals start to embrace universal ethical principles that apply to all individuals, regardless of laws or social agreements.

This stage-based approach allows Kohlberg to categorize moral reasoning in a structured manner, highlighting how individuals might rationalize their decisions at different points in their development. The sequential nature of the stages in his theory emphasizes that moral reasoning becomes increasingly complex as a person matures, reflecting deeper understanding and integration of ethical principles.