Sara Friend

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelors

Department

Humanities

First Advisor

Edidin, Aron

Area of Concentration

Philosophy

Abstract

The goal of this thesis is to examine autonomy in the context of our close relationships, specifically by illuminating ways in which romantic partnerships and parent-child relationships can nourish the autonomy of participants. This project is situated in the greater context of philosophical work on relational autonomy wherein feminist philosophers work to combat the traditional individualistic approach to autonomy by underscoring the importance of our relational situation. Throughout, I focus on three dimensions that I find conceptually core to personal autonomy: self-concepts, needs and interests, and evaluative perspectives. I put forth for each domain ways in which autonomy is threatened, how to avoid those threats, and positive contributions to autonomy. The main threats to autonomy come from asymmetric dynamics and harmful social ideologies that encourage participants to “lose themselves.” The main positive contribution to autonomy is Andrea Westlund’s concept of dialogical answerability which is a disposition to be open to the critical perspectives of others. I take it that our relationships have the potential to facilitate personal and collective development when they are spaces characterized by closeness, mutuality, and collaboration. Ultimately, this project expands our understanding of what an autonomous life can be.

Download

Share

COinS