Autonomous

The term "autonomous" refers to the ability of an entity to operate independently or self-governing without external control or influence. In various contexts, it describes systems, organisms, or individuals capable of making decisions and taking actions based on their own internal processes or judgments. Autonomous entities exhibit self-regulation, self-direction, and the capacity to respond effectively to their environments without relying on external commands or inputs. This concept is often applied in fields such as robotics, where machines operate independently, as well as in discussions of personal autonomy in philosophy and ethics, emphasizing individual rights and self-determination. In political contexts, autonomous regions or groups have the authority to govern themselves to a certain extent, distinct from central authority. Overall, "autonomous" signifies independence, self-sufficiency, and the capability to function effectively on one's own.