Autonomy in ethics refers to the capacity to be ones own person, to live ones life according to reasons, values, or desires that are authentically ones own. It is a central value in moral and political theory and is often discussed in debates over education policy, biomedical ethics, legal freedoms and rights, and moral philosophy more broadly. Here are some key points about autonomy in ethics:

• Self-government: In biomedical ethics, autonomy means self-government, which refers to the right of competent adults to make informed decisions about their own medical care.

• Intrinsic value: Autonomy is often seen as having intrinsic value, meaning that it is valuable in and of itself, rather than just as a means to an end.

• Moral autonomy: This refers to the capacity to impose the moral law on oneself, and it is claimed as a fundamental organizing principle of all morality.

• Personal autonomy: This is the capacity to decide for oneself and pursue a course of action in ones life, often regardless of any particular moral content.

• Political autonomy: This is the property of having ones decisions respected, honored, and heeded within a political context.

• Informed consent: Autonomy is a cornerstone of medical law and practice, and it underlies the requirement to seek the consent or informed agreement of the patient before any investigation or treatment takes place.

Overall, autonomy is a complex and multifaceted concept that is central to many areas of ethics and philosophy. It is often seen as a fundamental value that should be respected and upheld in various contexts, including medical care and political decision-making.