The autonomy of individuals is widely regarded as a central value that should be promoted, preserved, and respected. Individuals seem to possess a right to autonomy against the interference of others and strive for autonomy as a personal ideal. Conversely, a lack of autonomy appears to be a regrettable loss, often indicating oppression, disenfranchisement, or mental illness. But what exactly makes individuals autonomous, and why is autonomy so valuable? Is it due to a specific constellation of attitudes and their interrelations, as internalist approaches suggest? Are there certain social circumstances and relationships that characterize individuals as autonomous according to externalist approaches? Or can further characteristics be identified? In short: Do individuals qualify as such.