Autonomy refers to the ability or freedom to make one’s own decisions and act independently, without needing permission or control from others.
- Personal autonomy: Refers to an individual’s capacity for self-governance and self-determination. It means a person can make their own choices and govern their own life.
- Political autonomy: This typically describes the self-governing status of a region, country, or community. For example, a region may have “autonomous” status within a larger nation, meaning it has the power to make certain decisions independently of the national government.
- Workplace autonomy: In a job setting, autonomy can mean having the freedom to make decisions about how to complete tasks, manage time, or approach work without excessive oversight.
- Technological autonomy: When talking about machines, such as autonomous vehicles, it refers to their ability to operate and make decisions independently, often through artificial intelligence.