The phrase "self determining" is often misspelled as "self-determining", with a hyphen. However, the correct spelling is without a hyphen. The IPA phonetic transcription for "self determining" is /sɛlf dɪˈtɜːmɪnɪŋ/. This means that the word is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable ("de-TER-min-ing") and with the "t" in "determining" pronounced slightly differently than in the base word "determine". It is important to spell the word accurately to avoid confusion and ensure effective communication.
Self-determining is an adjective used to describe an individual or a group's ability to make choices and decisions autonomously, without external interference or influence. It refers to the capacity to govern oneself and exert control over one's own actions, behavior, and destiny. It implies having the freedom and power to determine one's own course of action based on personal values, beliefs, needs, and desires.
In the context of individuals, self-determining individuals are those who possess a strong sense of self-awareness, personal autonomy, and independence. They are capable of making decisions that are aligned with their own interests and goals, rather than being solely guided by external pressures or expectations. This includes the ability to assert one's own rights, express opinions, and pursue one's own dreams and ambitions.
In the context of communities or nations, self-determining refers to the right and process of such groups to determine their own political status, economic systems, social structures, and cultural identity. It is often associated with the concept of self-governance and the demand for self-rule, independence, or sovereignty. Self-determination can be achieved through peaceful negotiations, referendums, or other political processes aimed at recognizing and safeguarding the rights of communities to govern themselves according to their own will.
Overall, being self-determining implies a sense of personal agency, liberty, and self-control, which allows individuals or groups to make choices and shape their own lives or political destinies.
The word "self-determining" is derived from combining two words: "self" and "determining".
1. Self: This word traces its roots back to the Old English word "self", which means "one's own person, the individual". It is related to the Germanic word "selb" or "selv", meaning "self", and can be ultimately traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root *sel- or *swel-, which denotes "the individual, marked by oneself".
2. Determining: The term "determining" is derived from the verb "determine", which comes from Latin "determinare". In Latin, "determinare" is a combination of two words: "de" meaning "completely" or "thoroughly", and "terminare" meaning "to set bounds" or "to limit".