Exploring the Multiple Meanings of "Autonomy": From Ancient Greek City-States to the AI Era

The term "autonomy" originates from ancient Greece, initially referring to the power of city-states to govern themselves, make laws, and not be controlled by larger governing bodies. As time has passed, this concept has evolved, extending from personal autonomy to the modern technological realm, giving rise to new meanings.

In the field of AI, "autonomy" usually refers to the ability of a system to perform tasks without human intervention. Autonomous agents not only possess the ability to think and make decisions but should also be able to operate stably for a long time, have a digital identity, financial autonomy, and even self-control over computing power and energy management. Future cryptographic networks are likely to become the infrastructure for AI to achieve higher levels of autonomy.

The definition of "autonomy" in DAOs has differences. The early Ethereum white paper defined it as an organization that operates autonomously, relying entirely on smart contract code. However, in reality, most DAOs struggle to achieve complete automated operation and gradually return to the meaning of organizational self-governance. Community DAOs and the ideal automated DAOs may develop along different paths.

"自主世界"(Autonomous World) is an emerging concept that refers to a world based on blockchain, with strict narrative boundaries, formally introduced rules, and no privileged individuals necessary for its maintenance. It is closer to the early definition of DAO, emphasizing objectivity and self-sustainability. This kind of world allows participants to create objective facts without being controlled by a single entity.

The meaning of "autonomy" is still evolving. From the city-states of ancient Greece to modern AI, from individual autonomy to organizational self-governance, and then to an autonomous world, this concept has always reflected humanity's pursuit of self-realization and freedom. However, the essence of human autonomy, and whether we can truly transcend the constraints of universal rules, remains a philosophical question worth pondering.