self-determination
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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.
autonomy
Both words refer to making decisions freely and independently. „Autonomie“ tends to emphasize an independent status or scope for action, whereas „Selbstbestimmung“ highlights a specific decision made by oneself. When the focus is on existing independence, use „Autonomie“; when it is on deciding for oneself, use „Selbstbestimmung“.
Die Selbstbestimmung der Patientin zeigt sich darin, dass sie die Behandlung selbst auswählt.
The patient's self-determination is evident in the fact that she chooses her own treatment.
Die Autonomie der Patientin bleibt gewahrt, weil sie über ihre Behandlung selbst entscheiden kann.
The patient's autonomy is preserved because she can decide for herself about her treatment.
