How is autonomy best defined?

Autonomy is best defined as the right or condition of self-government. This concept emphasizes the power and ability of individuals or groups to govern themselves independently, allowing them to make decisions without external control. In various contexts, such as political communities or nations, autonomy signifies that a certain entity has the authority to manage its own affairs and make decisions that impact its governance and policies.

In this context, while the ability to make choices freely aligns with the idea of personal autonomy, it does not encompass the broader implications of governance and self-rule that are specifically highlighted by autonomy as a condition of self-government. The idea of dependency on a larger government directly contradicts the notion of autonomy, as it suggests a lack of self-governance. Legal recognition by other governing bodies pertains to the acknowledgment of authority rather than the intrinsic quality of self-governance itself. Thus, the most comprehensive definition of autonomy indeed revolves around the right or condition of self-government.