Re-thinking relational autonomy: Challenging the triumph of autonomy through vulnerability

Abstract

Relational autonomy is a key concept in challenging the “triumph of the principle of autonomy” in bioethics. Considering the inextricable relationship between the concept of vulnerability and relational autonomy, it can be seen that autonomy and vulnerability are not incompatible. Because vulnerability is an unavoidable human condition, only through the network of relationships in which we are embedded is it possible to develop a capacity towards autonomy, understanding it through relationships. While there is a vast literature in bioethics about the term of relational autonomy, there is a lack of clarification, or systematization on the definition of the main characteristics of this term. Through the connection with a universal vulnerability concept, the aim of this paper is to develop the main characteristics of the term relational autonomy. Including the notion of vulnerability, relational autonomy can be understood as a capacity to make decisions, not as an individual, self-sufficient person, but as an individual being embedded in social relationships. A description is presented of five features of relational autonomy: relationships, capacity for decision making as a process, progression along the life course, professional commitment, and collectivity.