Kohlberg

Relating Kohlberg’s Stages of Moral Development to Franciscan Values and Corporate Ethics

Before establishing a relationship between Kohlberg’s levels of moral development and the Franciscan values, it’s important to understand basic community structure prior to making assumptions about the care its citizens receive. Both ancient and modern villages were most likely formed by common associations based on physical, social and economic variables such as: proximity to trade routes; geographical boundaries; spiritual and religious beliefs; social values; economic conditions or other defining attributes that linked different people together who shared common norms, values and beliefs. Communities rely on other members to defend itself against attacks that could weaken its structural system. There is also a reliance on people to provide a means of self-government to insulate the village from factors that could tear it apart from within. A community is only as strong as its weakest link and its members strive to ensure everyone remains active participants in its healthy unification.

Unfortunately, members or sub-groups within communities may see threats to its existence and purge out those unable to contribute to its stability. This may have been done because of beliefs that run counter to those of the majority; economic conditions that force members to the fringes of society; or a contagious illness that could spread amongst the general population. Communities are changing, shifting and adapting to try and satisfy the expectations of those who comprise its members and keep it healthy and viable. Within each community, there are written laws that provide a standard set of governing principles that determine socially acceptable parameters defining people’s lives. This legal system is usually very black and white with little room for side stepping the authority of the courts representing the general populous. Laws are frequently being updated based on the societal...