Autonomy (noun)

The state or quality of being self-governing, being independent, or having the power of self-government.

Origin:

Derived from the greek word 'autonomos' meaning 'having its own laws'.

Examples:

1. The autonomy of the individual is valued highly in democratic societies.
2. The autonomy of regions within a country allows for diverse forms of government and cultural expression.
3. Employee autonomy is often seen as an important factor in job satisfaction and motivation.
4. The pursuit of autonomy is a common human desire, as people seek to have control over their own lives.
5. The autonomy of a system refers to its ability to function independently, without outside control.