Answer:
Here are some selected quotes from Chapter 12 of "Why We Do What We Do: The Dynamics of Personal Autonomy" by Edward L. Deci:
- - "To be autonomous does not mean to be without constraints or influences but rather to act in accord with one's self. It means that one's actions are chosen and endorsed by the self and are not simply a result of external pressures or internal drives."
- - "The experience of autonomy is characterized by a sense of willingness, choice, and endorsement in one's actions. It is a sense of being the initiator and regulator of one's behavior."
- - "Autonomy is not a fixed state but rather a dynamic process that fluctuates as a function of changing needs, circumstances, and social contexts."
- - "When individuals are supported in their autonomy, they experience greater vitality, creativity, and well-being. They also tend to be more open to learning and to be more motivated to pursue their goals."
- - "When people feel controlled, they tend to become reactive, defensive, and resistant. They may comply with external demands in the short-term, but in the long-term, they may experience burnout, disengagement, and even rebellion."
- - "Autonomy-supportive environments provide individuals with a sense of choice, competence, and relatedness. They foster intrinsic motivation, optimal functioning, and well-being."
- - "Autonomy is not just a personal issue but also a social and cultural issue. It depends on the values, norms, and practices of the community in which individuals live."
- - "By supporting autonomy, we can help individuals to develop their own values, interests, and skills. We can also help them to contribute to the common good and to create a more just and humane society."