Heteronomic

/ˌhɛtərəˈnoʊmɪk/ adjective

Definition

Subject to or governed by external laws or rules rather than self-imposed ones; lacking autonomous control.

Etymology

From Greek hetero- (other/different) and nomos (law), formed as hetero-nomic meaning 'governed by another's law,' contrasting with autonomous (self-governing).

Kelly Says

Philosophers love this word to describe someone following rules just because an authority said so, versus someone like Kant who believed we should follow rules we give ourselves—it's the difference between obedience and true freedom!

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