Autonomy vs. Beneficence Autonomy Definition: Autonomy is the personal rule of the self that is free from both controlling interferences by others and from personal limitations that prevent meaningful choice. Autonomous individuals act intentionally, with understanding, and without controlling influences. Clinical Applications: Respect for autonomy is one of the fundamental guidelines of clinical ethics.
Autonomy in medicine is not simply allowing patients to make their own decisions. Physicians have an obligation to create the conditions necessary for autonomous choice in others. For a physician, respect for autonomy includes respecting an individual?s right to self-determination as well as creating the conditions necessary for autonomous choice. Individuals come to doctors for guidance in making choices because they do not have the necessary background or information for making…
