The idea that an individual, organization, or state possesses a limited degree of freedom, but this freedom is always conditional and exists within a web of external constraints, dependencies, and coercive influences. You have the illusion of choice, but your options are pre-filtered by larger systems (economic, political, algorithmic). It's autonomy with an asterisk—you can steer, but the road, the map, and the destination are largely determined by forces beyond your control. Your "free will" is exercised within a heavily patrolled playground.
Theory of Relative Disautonomy Example: A social media influencer has Relative Disautonomy. They can choose what brand to promote or what political take to voice, but their entire livelihood depends on an algorithm's favor, advertiser sentiment, and platform rules that can change overnight. They are free to dance, but only on a platform owned by someone else, who can pull the trapdoor at any time.
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal February 3, 2026
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