Autonomy and Self-Determination

In each and every one of our lives we have a choice: to have full control of our lives or allow others to control it. Some may find it comforting and easy to just follow the same path that others have done before them. They may think it is the “right thing to do” because it keeps them in their comfort zone. This can manifest itself in the form of codependency or even as having a lack of ambition. In contrast a person can be fully involved in every aspect of their lives. They take initiative and are intrinsically motivated. They are the epitome of self-determination and autonomy.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, autonomy is defined as “the condition or right of a state, institution, group etc. to make its own laws or rules and administer its own affairs; self-government, independence.” Although that definition sounds like something straight out of the Constitution, it can be applied to any person’s life. It is explaining that every person has the ability to make his or her own “rules.” Rules on how they wish to lead their life and where they wish to go. The whole idea of autonomy is centered on the idea of independence. Although it is important to be able to work with others when necessary, it is even more important to be self-reliant. When push comes to shove, it’s your life and you should have full control over it.

Like previously stated, another important aspect of autonomy is the idea of self-determination. The Oxford English Dictionary defined this as “determination of one’s mind or will by itself.” This definition hones in and sums up the whole purpose of our INQ class. This class has taught us to be more self-sufficient now that we are in college. There is much more that is expected of us and only with self-determination in both our mind and heart will we be successful.

From our INQ trip to the library, I learned many helpful tips for using the library resources for research. Since I was in first grade I have been learning how to find books at the library according to call number but I what I took out from this experience was much more than that. I learned how to take advantage of all the resources Southern has to offer. I believe the point of the assignment that was given was to see how autonomy could be integrated into any aspect of our lives. For example, I can now take it upon myself to do research, easily and efficiently, without any real help at all by using the library resources. This allows me to be independent and self-reliant as a first-year student. This will be very beneficial for the rest of my educational career and beyond. 

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, 

I took the one less traveled by, 

And that has made all the difference."

 -Robert Frost