self-determination
Loading your saved state.
self-determination
The ability and the right to decide freely and independently about one's own affairs and one's own life, without being determined by others. This applies both to individuals and to peoples or groups.
Ein zentrales Ziel der Erziehung ist es, Kinder zur Selbstbestimmung zu befähigen.
A central goal of education is to enable children to develop self-determination.
The word is built very logically: it consists of 'selbst' (self) and 'die Bestimmung' (determination). So it literally means that you can determine your own life yourself.
Die Selbstbestimmung des Patienten muss immer respektiert werden.
The patient's self-determination must always be respected.
A very common and important combination is 'das Recht auf Selbstbestimmung' (the right to self-determination). This expression is often used in political or ethical discussions.
Alle Völker haben das Recht auf Selbstbestimmung.
All peoples have the right to self-determination.
'Selbstbestimmung' (self-determination) is a rather formal word. It is often found in texts and discussions about politics, law, philosophy, and education.
In der Debatte ging es um die finanzielle Selbstbestimmung von Frauen.
The debate was about women's financial self-determination.
freedom
'die Freiheit' and 'die Selbstbestimmung' are closely related because both are about not being determined by others. 'Freiheit' is broader and can refer to many rights, for example being allowed to speak, believe, travel, or act. 'Selbstbestimmung' especially emphasizes making your own decisions about your own life or your own affairs. When it is generally about rights, 'Freiheit' sounds more natural. When it is about deciding for yourself on important personal questions, 'Selbstbestimmung' is more precise.
Für viele ältere Menschen ist Selbstbestimmung im Alltag sehr wichtig.
For many older people, self-determination in everyday life is very important.
Jeder Mensch sollte die Freiheit haben, seine Meinung zu sagen.
Every person should have the freedom to express their opinion.