post-conventional
Summary
Post-conventional is the third and highest level of Kohlberg's moral development. Right and wrong are judged by abstract, self-chosen principles such as justice and human rights, which can override laws and social norms. The exam scores the reasoning given, not the decision made.
Detail
Meaning: In Kohlberg's theory, post-conventional reasoning is the third level, covering stages 5 and 6. Stage 5 (social contract) treats laws as agreements that serve people's welfare and can be changed when they fail. Stage 6 (universal ethical principles) rests on self-chosen principles such as justice and human dignity, which can override a law. The earlier levels are pre-conventional (stage 1 punishment avoidance, stage 2 self-interest) and conventional (stage 3 approval of others, stage 4 law and order).
On the MCAT: A passage presents a moral dilemma, often the Heinz dilemma, in which a man considers stealing a drug to save his dying wife. You are given a person's justification and asked to place it at a level. "It is against the law" points to stage 4. "Laws exist to protect life, so an unjust law can be broken" points to post-conventional.
Common confusion: Students sort by the decision (steal or not steal). Kohlberg scored the reasoning, so either choice can appear at any level. Breaking a rule to gain a reward or avoid punishment is pre-conventional, not post-conventional. Many adults reason mainly at the conventional level, and stage 6 is rare.
Sources
- Psychology
- Development Across the Life Span
Written for the MCAT and checked before it was published. For study reference only. Spotted an error? Let us know.