Following Kohlberg: Liberalism and the Practice of Democratic Community

by Donald R. C. Reed

Overview

Most moral philosophers and psychologists have missed something crucial in the work of Lawrence Kohlberg (1927–87), best known for his theory of stages of moral development. In Following Kohlberg: Liberalism and the Practice of Democratic Community, Donald R.C. Reed clearly illustrates how the Kohlbergian project has much to offer the crucial debate about moral psychology and how to revivify our society's jaded sense of fairness and responsibility. Psychologists, philosophers, theologians, educators, and therapists will find here a comprehensive guide to Kohlberg's life work, a clear presentation of both theory and practice, and an understanding of moral maturity which encompasses both justice and responsiveness. All who care about nurturing and preserving a democratic community are well-advised to read this book.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780268159894
Publisher:	University of Notre Dame Press
Publication date:	07/31/2017
Series:	Revisions: A Series of Books on Ethics , #15
Edition description:	1
Pages:	298
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 8.90(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

Donald R.C. Reed is associate professor of philosophy at Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio. As a fellow of the National Endowment for the Humanities (1996-97), he has conducted archival research for a biography of Kohlberg.

Editorial Reviews

Reed’s most original contribution resides in his articulation of distinct conceptions of liberal and democratic thinking.” —Philosophy in Review

From the Publisher

In this penetrating and insightful discussion of Kohlberg’s life and research, Donald R.C. Reed locates a fundamental tension between Kohlberg’s structural stage model, based on a philosophy of liberal individualism, and the Just Community approach, based on a communitarian ethic. [T]his book provides one of the most thoughtful and comprehensive treatment of Kohlberg and his work that I have ever read.

F. Clark Power

Suggests how the thought of Lawrence Kohlberg (1927-87), best known for his stages of moral development, can contribute to the debate about moral psychology and the revival of society's sense of fairness and responsibility. Draws on the psychological theory and data supporting his moral stage theory, the philosophy of morality that informed his research, and his practice of intervention in prisons and schools. Finds that the tension between individualist and collectivist approaches is not a flaw but an indication of the work still to be done in the area. Annotation c. by Book News, Inc., Portland, Or.

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