Moral reasoning is a fundamental aspect in psychology and ethical philosophy that seeks to understand how people make moral decisions and what principles govern their behavior in ethical situations. This process involves evaluating different options and considering the consequences of actions, as well as the ethical principles that guide an individual's moral judgment.
Explanatory theories of reasoning moral
1. Foundations Theory
One of the most influential theories in the field of moral reasoning is the Foundations Theory proposed by Jonathan Haidt. This theory postulates that there are six universal moral foundations that are innate to human nature and that guide our moral judgment. These foundations are: care/harm, justice/property, loyalty, betrayal, authority/subversion, purity/degradation, and freedom/oppression.
2. Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development
Another important theory in the study of moral reasoning is Lawrence Kohlberg's Theory of Moral Development. Kohlberg proposed a six-stage theory of moral development that is based on the idea that people go through different levels of moral reasoning throughout their lives. These levels range from preconventional, where decisions are based on punishment and reward, to postconventional, where actions are evaluated based on universal ethical principles.
3. Theory of dual systems of moral processing
A more recent theory in the field of moral reasoning is the Theory of Dual Systems of Moral Processing. This theory proposes that there are two moral processing systems in the brain: an intuitive and emotional system that is activated automatically and quickly, and a reflective and analytical system that requires cognitive effort. According to this theory, moral decisions can be influenced by the interaction between these two systems.
Factors that influence moral reasoning
1. Social and cultural context
The social and cultural context in which a person finds themselves can significantly influence their moral reasoning. Social norms, cultural beliefs, and personal experiences play an important role in forming an individual's moral judgments. For example, what is considered morally acceptable in one culture may be seen as unacceptable in another, highlighting the relativity of morality.
2. Emotions and affective states
Emotions and affective states also play a crucial role in moral reasoning. Emotions such as empathy, guilt, shame, and anger can influence the way people evaluate a moral situation and make ethical decisions. For example, empathy can lead a person to act altruistically, while anger can cause impulsive and poorly reasoned responses.
3. Cognitive development
An individual's cognitive development also influences his or her moral reasoning. According to Kohlberg's theory, people go through different stages of moral development as they mature cognitively. This means that the ability to understand and evaluate moral situations in a more complex way develops with age and experience.
Applications of moral reasoning
1. Professional Ethics
Moral reasoning is fundamental in the field of professional ethics, where individuals must make ethical decisions in their work environment. For example, doctors must face ethical dilemmas when deciding on medical treatments, lawyers must respect principles of justice and fairness, and business leaders must make ethical decisions that benefit the company and its employees.
2. Moral education
Moral education is another field where moral reasoning plays a crucial role. Teaching children and young people about moral principles, ethical dilemmas and how to make ethical decisions can help develop their moral reasoning skills and foster a more just and empathetic society. Moral education can also help prevent morally questionable behavior and promote positive values in society.
3. Clinical Psychology
In clinical psychology, moral reasoning is important in the evaluation and treatment of mental disorders that may affect an individual's moral judgment. For example, in cases of psychopathy, where a lack of empathy and remorse can lead to morally questionable behavior, it is essential to understand how the moral reasoning of these people is affected and how we can intervene to promote ethical behavior.
In conclusion, moral reasoning is a complex process that involves the evaluation of ethical principles, the consideration of consequences and the influence of internal and external factors in making ethical decisions. Understanding how moral reasoning works and the explanatory theories that underpin it is essential to addressing ethical dilemmas, promoting ethical decision-making, and fostering a morally responsible and just society.