In Kohlberg's theory, which stage follows conventional morality and emphasizes social contracts?

• A. Stage 3
• B. Stage 4
• C. Stage 6
• D. Stage 5

Answer: (D)

Understanding Kohlberg's progression shows that conventional morality includes stages focused on maintaining social approval and upholding laws. The stage that comes after this, and is defined by evaluating rules through the lens of a social contract and individual rights, is the social contract orientation. This perspective recognizes that laws are not absolute; they should reflect justice and can be revised through democratic means to better protect rights and welfare. That emphasis on negotiating and evaluating rules within a broader social agreement fits as the next step after conventional morality. In contrast, the earlier stage centers on fitting in and seeking approval, the other conventional stage emphasizes obeying rules to preserve order, and the later stages move toward universal ethical principles that go beyond any particular social contract.