Who is recognized for differentiating between men's and women's approaches to moral decision-making?

The recognition of Carol Gilligan for differentiating between men's and women's approaches to moral decision-making stems from her groundbreaking work in the field of ethics and psychology. In her influential book "In a Different Voice," published in 1982, Gilligan challenged traditional moral theories that often emphasized a masculine view of ethics, which tends to prioritize justice, rights, and abstract principles.

Gilligan argued that women are more likely to approach ethical dilemmas through a lens of care and relationships, focusing on empathy, compassion, and maintaining connections with others. She posited that this has implications for how gender shapes moral reasoning and decision-making. Her work has had a significant impact on how scholars understand gender differences in ethics, influencing not only feminist ethics but also broader discussions around the role of relationality in moral reasoning.

This framework has been particularly useful in examining moral development, offering a more nuanced view that incorporates both care and justice perspectives, rather than confining moral reasoning to a single, often male-dominated standard. Gilligan's contributions continue to inform discussions about ethics in a variety of contexts, from education to healthcare and beyond.