n autonomous, adj Independence; the right or power to be self-governing; the state or quality of being free from outside control
an autonomous being is one that has the power of self-direction, possessing the ability to act as it decides, independent of the will of others and of other internal or external factors
The sovereignty of reason in the sphere of morals; or man's power, as possessed of reason, to give law to himself
An ethical principle which, when applied to managed care, states that managed care organizations and their providers have a duty to respect the right of their members to make decisions about the course of their lives 3
(Gr "self-rule") The status of an Orthodox Church that is self-ruled An autonomous church is governed by its prelate, who is chosen by a superior jurisdiction, usually by a patriarchate)