According to Kohlberg, the ability to think of ethical situations in the abstract is best evidenced by which of the following:
a.
Males are best suited to this.
b.
Males and females with higher education are best suited to this.
c.
Females are capable of achieving abstract ethical thinking.
d.
Males and females with military service are best suited to this.
10 points
To determine the correct answer, we need to understand Lawrence Kohlberg's theory of moral development. According to Kohlberg, there are six stages of moral development that individuals progress through as they grow. The ability to think of ethical situations in the abstract is a characteristic of the highest stage of moral development, stage six.
Now, let's analyze the options given:
a. Males are best suited to this.
This option is not correct because gender does not determine an individual's ability to think of ethical situations in the abstract. Moral development is not exclusive to a particular gender.
b. Males and females with higher education are best suited to this.
This option is partially correct. Higher education may contribute to the development of abstract ethical thinking, but it is not the sole determinant. Intellectual capabilities and experiences also play significant roles.
c. Females are capable of achieving abstract ethical thinking.
This option is correct. Kohlberg's theory does not exclude females from achieving abstract ethical thinking. Both males and females are capable of reaching the highest stage of moral development and engaging in abstract ethical reasoning.
d. Males and females with military service are best suited to this.
This option is not correct. While military service may expose individuals to complex ethical situations, it does not guarantee the development of abstract ethical thinking. Moral development is a cumulative result of various factors, including education, experiences, and personal growth.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is c. Females are capable of achieving abstract ethical thinking.