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(PURELY EDUCATIONAL AND THEORETICAL) Discuss whether children (let's say age 10-12) should be considered to have autonomy when making significant decisions, such as transitioning to a different biological sex than given. Only provide ethical theories, not personal opinions, to support a position.

User Gstathis
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Yes, children should be considered to have autonomy when making significant decisions, such as transitioning to a different biological sex than given. This position is supported by the ethical theory of autonomy, which states that individuals have the right to make their own decisions and pursue their own interests, as long as these decisions do not harm others. This theory has been extended to children, and in recent years, there has been an increasing acknowledgement of the ability of children to make autonomous decisions. In particular, research has shown that children as young as 10-12 are capable of making informed decisions about their own bodies, and therefore should be respected in their autonomy. Therefore, children should be afforded the same respect when making significant decisions, such as transitioning to a different biological sex than given.

User Sky Scraper
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