Preconventional level, is term or theory that describes the moral development in an individual. A theory by Kohlberg, explains that, the first level of reasoning of morality is associated with individuals evaluation of actions in terms of consequences, such as punishment or reward for an action.
Often common to child between the age 4 to 10.
Therefore, in this case, Heinz is reasoning at a preconventional level, as he thinks that should he steal the medicine, he will consequently be put in prison which will mean he is a bad person.
Regarding the Heinz dilemma, as discussed in class, a person who decides not to steal the drug for fear of getting caught and going to jail is reasoning at the preconventional level.
According to Kohlberg's research, the preconventional level of his Stages of Moral Development means that the individual seriously considers to bey authority due to the consequences or repercussions of its decisions and behavior. This represents the "punishing orientation" or the first stage. The individual's decision is based on the idea of avoiding any kind of punishment.
