Autonomy is the state of being self-governing or self-determining, typically in the context of individual decision-making or the ability of an entity to govern itself independently. Autonomy can refer to a range of different things, including personal autonomy, which refers to an individual’s ability to make decisions and act independently, and political autonomy, which refers to the ability of a group or region to govern itself without external control.

In general, autonomy is often associated with the idea of freedom and independence. It can be seen as a key component of human dignity and a fundamental human right, as it allows individuals to make their own choices and pursue their own goals without interference from others.

However, the concept of autonomy is also subject to various debates and interpretations. For example, some people argue that autonomy must be balanced with other values, such as responsibility and accountability, while others suggest that the ability to exercise autonomy is influenced by a range of external factors, such as cultural, social, and economic conditions.