Autonomy is defined as which of the following?

• A. The right to freedom from all external control
• B. The capacity to be self-governing, independent, and free from external control
• C. The capacity to be self-governing, independent, and free from external control, allowing individuals or groups to make their own decisions based on personal values
• D. The duty to follow medical professionals

Answer: (C)

Autonomy is the capacity to be self-governing, independent, and free from external control, and to make decisions based on one’s own values. The best description includes both the freedom to decide for oneself and the ability to choose actions aligned with personal values, recognizing that individuals or groups direct their own lives rather than being coerced by others. The other formulations are less accurate: one is too absolute about being free from all external influence, which isn’t realistic in real life or in healthcare, and another focuses on following professionals, which would undermine self-direction.