BUDDHADHAMMA PRINCIPLES AND KOHLBERG’S THEORY OF MORAL DEVELOPMENT FOR REDUCING CORRUPTION IN ORGANIZATIONS

Abstract

The objective of this article is to enhance the understanding of Kohlberg’s theory of moral development and moral reasoning. Kohlberg introduced the fundamentals of using moral reasoning and social perception in relation to moral development. Each individual has a different path of moral development and can be promoted to a higher level. There are three levels of moral development, including pre-conventional morality, conventional morality, and post-conventional morality. This theory is a widely-accepted foundation of rationality for psychologists, educators, and behaviorists. In addition, this article enhances the understanding of traditional Buddhist principles including Sammappadhana4, Lokapaladhamma2, Sappurisadhamma7, Karavasadhamma4, and Sujjarita3. This refers to the existing literature and the Buddhist principles regarding the prevention of incorrect decisions and corruption in the workplace. The core concept of this article can be applied to the development of morality and virtue in organizations and society. It provides means of reducing corruption, controversy, inequity, and fraud and increases positive attitudes, virtues, and morals. Consequently, social problems which interfere with the development of the country will be decreased. Individuals with morality-centered decision-making may be able to reduce corruption, leading to the development of               a society that is strong, peaceful, and sustainable in the future.