Kohlberg's theory of moral education

Kohlberg's theory of moral development explains how people's understanding of right and wrong evolves through stages as they grow. He proposed that individuals move from a focus on avoiding punishment, to gaining approval, then to understanding social rules, and eventually to developing their own ethical principles. This progression reflects increasing levels of moral reasoning, where decisions are based on external consequences first, then on social harmony, and finally on universal ethical values. The theory helps educators foster moral growth by understanding these stages and encouraging students to develop more advanced, principled moral thinking.