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The study of moral development is most prominently associated with Lawrence Kohlberg. His theory expanded upon Jean Piaget's earlier work, detailing how humans progress through various stages of moral reasoning. Kohlberg identified three main levels of moral development, each comprised of two stages, which demonstrate how individuals conceptualize morality from a simplistic, punishment-and-obedience perspective to a more complex understanding of social contracts and universal ethical principles.

By establishing a framework for understanding how moral reasoning evolves in children and adults, Kohlberg's contributions provide significant insights into educational practices, parenting, and social behavior. His work has influenced various fields and continues to be foundational for those studying morality in education and psychology, highlighting the maturation of ethical decision-making as individuals gain experiences and cognitive abilities.