In Kohlberg's model, which orientation is Stage 5 (Social Contract orientation)?

• A. Interpersonal accord and conformity
• B. Universal ethical principles
• C. Social contract orientation
• D. Obedience and punishment orientation

Answer: (C)

Stage 5 focuses on rules as social contracts that aim to promote the greatest good and protect fundamental rights, with the understanding that these rules can be revised through collective agreement when they no longer serve justice. In this view, moral judgments hinge on how laws and practices affect overall welfare and individual rights; if a law is unjust or violates basic liberties, it should be open to revision or change through democratic processes. This contrasts with simply following rules to avoid punishment or to maintain social order, and with conforming to others’ expectations. It also sits below the highest level, where decisions are guided by abstract, universal ethical principles. So, evaluating laws by their social utility and rights-protecting intent, and seeing them as negotiable within a community, is why this is the social contract orientation.