Abstract

This thesis considers aspects of Piaget's and Kohlberg's theories of the moral development and education of children. It takes into consideration an old but valuable study of the development of character in children. As a possible alternative model to that provided by Kohlberg we suggest the inclusion of the Philosophy for Children programme into schools. Prior to the elaboration of this proposition we critically analyse certain philosophical concepts put forward by both Piaget and Kohlberg. Our aim here has been to suggest that there are underlying philosophical weaknesses which have a hidden but important impact on the acceptability of aspects of their work. We express our concern at the acceptance of Kohlberg's work in schools and point out why this is unsatisfactory. We put forward what we take to be an acceptable position in introducing moral education into schools and we put forward an approach where this can take place within the context of a broader educational programme and which includes the Philosophy for Children programme