What legislative principles does Kohlberg's postconventional reasoning include?

Kohlberg's postconventional reasoning is characterized by the recognition of social contracts, which emphasizes the importance of understanding the mutual agreements that underlie society's laws. At this stage, individuals move beyond simply adhering to rules or laws for the sake of authority or tradition. Instead, they evaluate laws in light of broader principles of justice and individual rights.

This recognition means that individuals at the postconventional level may challenge unjust laws or think critically about how laws align with ethical principles that prioritize human welfare and freedom. They understand that laws can be flawed and that changing social contracts can be a necessary part of societal progress. This perspective allows for growth in moral reasoning that goes beyond simple compliance or allegiance to authority, making it a significant aspect of postconventional reasoning as conceptualized by Kohlberg.