Stages of Ethical Consciousness

Stages of Ethical Consciousness refer to the different levels of ethical awareness that an individual can have. These stages were first introduced by psychologist Lawrence Kohlberg in 1958 and later expanded upon by others. Understanding these stages can help individuals and organizations to develop their ethical decision-making capabilities.

The stages of ethical consciousness are divided into three levels:

1. Pre-Conventional Level: At this level, individuals' behavior is driven by self-interest and the avoidance of punishment. In other words, they do what is right to avoid getting in trouble or to gain a reward.
2. Conventional Level: At this level, individuals' behavior is driven by social norms and expectations. They do what is right because it is expected of them by society or their peers.
3. Post-Conventional Level: At this level, individuals' behavior is driven by their own personal values and principles. They do what is right because it aligns with their own beliefs and values, even if it goes against social norms or expectations.

It is important to note that not everyone reaches the post-conventional level, and many individuals operate at different stages depending on the situation. However, striving for a higher level of ethical consciousness can lead to better decision-making and a more ethical approach to business.

To summarize, the stages of ethical consciousness are a way to understand the different levels of ethical awareness that an individual can have. By striving for a higher level of ethical consciousness, individuals and organizations can develop their ethical decision-making capabilities and make more ethical choices in the business world.

Examples of the Stages of Ethical Consciousness:

• Pre-conventional Stage: A person at this stage only cares about their personal benefit and will do anything to avoid punishment. An example of this stage could be an employee who steals office supplies for personal use.
• Conventional Stage: At this stage, individuals understand and follow the rules set by society and the organization they work for. An example of this stage could be an employee who follows company policies and procedures even if they don't fully agree with them.
• Principled Stage: Individuals at this stage follow their own internal ethical principles and values, even if they conflict with societal norms or organizational rules. An example of this stage could be an employee who speaks out against unethical behavior even if it goes against the company's interests.

References:

Kohlberg, L. (1984). The Psychology of Moral Development: The Nature and Validity of Moral Stages (Vol. 2). Harper & Row.

Treviño, L. K., & Nelson, K. A. (2011). Managing business ethics: Straight talk about how to do it right. John Wiley & Sons.