The social mediation of a moral dilemma: appropriating the moral tools of others

Abstract

Much effort, on a philosophical and a research basis, has been applied to the subject of moral development framed within a constructivist, Piagetian stage-type format. These efforts have focused on the process of the individual's construction of a moral base and the individual's corresponding level of moral development. At this point in time, little research has been directed at analysing the sociocultural influences on morality construction, moral decision-making and moral development within the framework of a specific developmental theory. This research examined the processes involved in the resolution of a moral dilemma within a group setting, and evaluated the usefulness of a Vygotskian theoretical base in analysing these observations. This study provides initial evidence supporting the utility of a Vygotskian conceptual model. Additional research exploring the importance of the social aspects of moral processing, reasoning and development is needed.

Ethical issues in instructional technology: an exploratory framework

“…These communities involve thoughtful and deliberate processes. Turner and Chambers (2006) demonstrate how impulsive judgments limit discussions to conventional bases of thinking; however, with additional time, new and innovative ideas emerge. Kelchtermans (2007) found that realization of social context occurred through reflection after forming understandings of self and gaining confidence in that conceptualization.…”

Vygotskian Business Ethics: The Influence of Peers on Moral Reasoning in Business Ethics Education

“…One of the first nonbusiness studies to specifically support Vygotskian theory comes from Turner and Chambers (2006). Based on the famous Heinz moral dilemma, the researchers asked students a series of questions to stimulate initial responses and then engaged the students in a group discussion.…”