Skip to content

Application Quote by Lawrence Kohlberg

“The individual makes a clear effort to define moral values and principles that have validity and application apart from the authority of the groups of persons holding them and apart from the individual's own identification with the group.” quote by Lawrence Kohlberg
Download Open image
“The individual makes a clear effort to define moral values and principles that have validity and application apart from the authority of the groups of persons holding them and apart from the individual's own identification with the group.”

Lawrence Kohlberg

About This Quote

Source Book: Moral Development Theory, 1981

Moral reasoning should be based on universal principles, not on group identity or personal bias.

In simple terms: Base morality on universal values, not group pressure.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate independent ethical judgment.

Themes

ethics psychology education

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical instructional

When to use this quote

  • classroom discussions
  • leadership training
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

Moral autonomy principle-based reasoning critical thinking

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can societies balance universal ethics with cultural diversity?
  • What challenges arise when individuals reject group norms?
A Different Perspective

May conflict with cultural traditions or social cohesion.

4.6 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Lawrence Kohlberg

Explore all 25 Lawrence Kohlberg quotes

More Application quotes

Browse all 918 Application quotes