Who is known for developing the stages of moral development?

Lawrence Kohlberg is known for developing the stages of moral development, which he outlined in his theory based on the work of Jean Piaget. Kohlberg proposed a framework consisting of three main levels of moral reasoning—pre-conventional, conventional, and post-conventional—each of which is subdivided into two stages. This progression demonstrates how individuals evolve in their capacity for ethical reasoning, advancing from a focus on self-interest to a broader understanding of social contracts and universal ethical principles. His research involved longitudinal studies and moral dilemmas, offering significant insights into how moral reasoning develops throughout different stages of life. This theory continues to be influential in fields such as psychology, education, and moral philosophy.