Researchers present a Heinz-style dilemma to participants and ask them to justify their answers. Participant A says, "He shouldn't steal because he could go to jail." Participant B says, "He should steal because human life is worth more than property, and laws that fail to protect life are unjust." Participant C says, "He shouldn't steal because good people follow the rules."
Participant A's response is characteristic of which Kohlberg level?
- A
Conventional
- B
Formal operational
- Ccheck_circle
Preconventional
- D
Postconventional
Explanation
Preconventional morality is dominated by avoidance of punishment and pursuit of rewards. Concern about going to jail focuses on personal consequences rather than social norms or universal principles.