Theory and research regarding moral motivation has focused for decades on the roles of moral reasoning and, to some extent, moral emotion. Recently, however, several models of morality have positioned identity as an additional important source of moral motivation. An individual has a moral identity to the extent that he or she has constructed his…

Reviews a collection of essays and articles primarily by German psychologists on the subject of social cognition. Of particular interest is the introductory exposition of "Handlungstheorie" (action theory), an orientation stressing goal-directed action and its intended or unintended consequences as central categories of psychological…

Argues that moral reasoning is premised upon more comprehensive worldviews. Suggests that moral behaviors in part serve to maintain these worldviews. Uses interviews with adults whose moral evaluations and reasoning place them on opposite sides of the current American culture war to illustrate the argument that they differ in their moralities…

A narrative approach to moral development sees a role for language in moral experience and regards the self as dialogic, or relational, as opposed to the epistemic self of the cognitive-developmental approach. This article reviews empirical foundations of the narrative approach, explores the dialogic conception of the self, and considers…

Comments on revision of Piagetian theory of reciprocity in forgiveness by Enright (PS 522 365) in this issue. Reviews relationship of Enright theory to previous research. Suggests that forgiveness may require moral insights in addition to reciprocity, but reciprocity appears central to children's and adults' understanding of forgiveness. Provides…

Suggests an approach to understanding moral functioning incorporating developments in biological and cognitive theory. (Author/MP)

Proposes a cognitive mechanism that makes forgiveness possible. Revises Piaget's theory that ideal reciprocity is the underlying cognitive operation that makes understanding and appreciation of forgiveness possible. Draws on modern philosophical inquiry, empirical study, and theory to argue instead that abstract identity provides--philosophically…

Reviews a book which describes the Sociomoral Reflection Measure-Short Form. Compares the test to that of Lawrence Kohlberg, pointing out benefits and drawbacks of the test, and concludes the test represents a notable advance in the measurement of Kohlberg's first four stages of moral development. (TM)