https://journals.eikipub.com/index.php/jcpas <p><strong>Journal of Contemporary Philosophical and Anthropological Studies (JCPAS)</strong> is an international peer-reviewed journal that publishes original and high-quality research papers in all areas of philosophy and anthropology. The journal is an important academic exchange platform where scientists and researchers can know the most up-to-date academic trends and seek for valuable findings for their research.</p> <p><strong>ISSN 2977-5507 </strong></p> European Institute of knowledge and innovation (EIKI LTD) en-US Journal of Contemporary Philosophical and Anthropological Studies 2977-5507 https://journals.eikipub.com/index.php/jcpas/article/view/471 <p>The representation of women in literature has long been influenced by patriarchal perspectives, often neglecting their moral experiences and ethical voices. Addressing this gap, the study explores the moral development of female protagonists in selected novels of Sidney Sheldon. The primary objective is to identify the stages of moral development and the distinct voices of the major heroines, using Carol Gilligan’s Feminist Care Ethics as a framework. Employing a descriptive qualitative research design, the study uses close reading and textual analysis to examine two novels: <em>Are You Afraid of the Dark?</em> and <em>The Best Laid Plans</em>. Findings reveal that the heroines progress through various stages of moral development, transitioning from self-interest to responsibility and self-sacrifice. The characters demonstrate interconnectedness, care, concern, and a strong sense of responsibility for others, ultimately embodying empowered women capable of ethical decision-making. The study highlights the complexity of female morality and contributes to broader discussions on gender and ethics in literary analysis.</p> Brandon Nacua Obenza Kenneth P. Sumatra Mark Jason E. Cuario Copyright (c) 2025 Brandon Nacua Obenza, Kenneth P. Sumatra, Mark Jason E. Cuario https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0 2025-04-15 2025-04-15 3 2 10.59652/jcpas.v3i2.471