Following Kohlberg: Liberalism and the Practice of Democratic Community

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.

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.