What does it mean for people to be morally autonomous?

Moral autonomy refers to the ability of individuals to make their own moral judgments and decisions based on personal principles rather than solely adhering to external influences or societal expectations. When someone is morally autonomous, it indicates that their understanding of right and wrong is shaped by their own reasoning, experiences, and beliefs.

This concept emphasizes personal responsibility and the importance of self-governance in ethical decision-making. It allows individuals to critically evaluate norms and rules, leading to a more authentic moral compass shaped by individual values rather than blind adherence to societal or external authorities, such as cultural norms or institutional dictates.

In contrast, the other options suggest a reliance on external sources for moral guidance, which is contrary to the essence of moral autonomy. Following societal rules without question, relying on external authority, or basing morals purely on cultural norms all imply a lack of personal moral agency, which is not characteristic of moral autonomy.