Two conceptions of autonomy

Classical liberal theoryhas worked with a rationalistic conception of autonomy. S/he behaves autonomously who behaves in accordance with reason. The prominence of this conception of autonomy has contributed to the exploitation, by liberal political practice, of discourses of expertise which work to heteronomize citizens' choices and actions. A pluralisticconception of autonomy is developed, based on insights of Stanley Benn, which may provide a bulwark against the exploitation of citizens by experts. Some conditions for the protection of pluralistic autonomy are identified.