Theory Of Cognitive Dissonance As It Pertains To Morality

Leon Festinger’s theory of cognitive dissonance has not been adequately researched in its application to morality (i.e., a person may believe one way but act another). The present experiment sought to demonstrate the presence of cognitive dissonance after making a difficult decision concerning morality. The results are congruent with the literature, which indicates that people experience significant cognitive dissonance after making a difficult decision. Different types of moral dilemmas elicit differing levels of cognitive dissonance. The theory that a person may reduce cognitive dissonance by changing their thoughts or decisions was not supported by the results.