The prefix “auto-” derives from the Greek phrase “autos,” which means “self.” It is generally utilized in English to kind phrases associated to self-action, self-governance, or computerized processes. Examples embrace automated, computerized, autonomy, and autobiography. These phrases typically describe equipment, processes, or biographical works.
This prefix performs a major position in conveying ideas central to technological development and private reflection. Its historic utilization displays a rising understanding and software of automated methods, from the earliest self-operating machines to advanced fashionable algorithms. This linguistic component facilitates clear and concise communication about self-regulating methods and particular person life tales.
Exploring vocabulary incorporating this prefix gives a deeper understanding of assorted fields, together with engineering, computing, and literature. This exploration will delve into particular examples, demonstrating the various functions and implications of this highly effective prefix.
1. Self-acting
The idea of “self-acting” is central to understanding phrases incorporating the prefix “auto-.” This prefix signifies an inherent functionality for impartial operation or motion with out exterior intervention. Exploring the sides of “self-acting” gives a deeper understanding of the which means and implications of such vocabulary.
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Automation in Expertise
Automation, a direct software of the “self-acting” precept, performs a vital position in fashionable expertise. Examples embrace automated meeting strains in manufacturing, self-driving automobiles, and algorithms that personalize on-line content material. These applied sciences carry out duties robotically, minimizing human intervention and infrequently growing effectivity.
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Organic Autonomy
Organic methods typically exhibit self-regulation, a type of “self-acting” habits. The human physique, for instance, robotically regulates temperature, heartbeat, and different important features. This inherent autonomy is important for survival and demonstrates the “self-acting” precept within the pure world.
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Unbiased Techniques
The idea of self-governance, each in political and technological contexts, embodies the “self-acting” precept. Unbiased methods, from self-governing nations to autonomous robots, function based mostly on inner guidelines and decision-making processes. This independence from exterior management is a key attribute of “self-acting” entities.
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Self-Reliance and Individuality
The notion of “self-acting” extends past machines and methods to embody particular person habits. Self-reliance, the power to behave independently and take duty for one’s actions, displays the “self-acting” precept utilized to human company. Autobiographical writing, specializing in self-representation and private narratives, additionally connects to this theme of particular person autonomy and self-expression.
These sides reveal the broad applicability of the “self-acting” precept inherent in phrases using the “auto-” prefix. From technological automation to organic processes and particular person autonomy, this core idea underpins a various vary of phenomena and gives a unifying framework for understanding the importance of vocabulary associated to self-action and self-governance. This connection clarifies the which means and implications of “auto” in varied contexts.
2. Automated Processes
Automated processes are intrinsically linked to phrases incorporating the “auto-” prefix. This prefix denotes self-action, and computerized processes embody this idea by working independently, typically with out exterior intervention. This connection is obvious in quite a few functions, from industrial automation to organic features. As an illustration, an automatic meeting line exemplifies an computerized course of the place machines carry out duties sequentially with out fixed human management. Equally, the human respiratory system features robotically, regulating respiration with out aware effort. This demonstrates the core relationship between the idea of self-action embedded throughout the “auto-” prefix and the impartial operation attribute of computerized processes.
The significance of computerized processes as a part of “auto-” phrases stems from their potential to reinforce effectivity and reliability. Automated methods can carry out repetitive duties with higher pace and precision than people, minimizing errors and growing productiveness. In manufacturing, automated high quality management checks guarantee constant product requirements. Inside software program, computerized updates improve safety and performance with out consumer intervention. Moreover, computerized processes underpin important organic features, highlighting their elementary position in sustaining life. These examples reveal the sensible significance of understanding the hyperlink between computerized processes and “auto-” vocabulary: it gives perception into how technological developments and pure methods leverage the precept of self-action to attain particular outcomes.
In conclusion, the connection between computerized processes and “auto-” phrases is prime. The “auto-” prefix signifies self-action, an idea instantly embodied by computerized processes working independently and infrequently with out exterior management. This connection is important for understanding varied technological developments and pure phenomena. Recognizing the significance of computerized processes clarifies the sensible significance of “auto-” vocabulary, providing insights into the design and performance of each synthetic and pure methods that leverage the precept of self-action.
3. Self-governance
Self-governance, the capability for self-direction and impartial decision-making, types a core idea inside phrases incorporating the “auto-” prefix. Derived from the Greek “autos” (self), this prefix signifies autonomous motion and management. Exploring the sides of self-governance gives deeper perception into the which means and implications of “auto-” vocabulary throughout varied disciplines, from political science to biology.
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Autonomy in Political Techniques
Political autonomy, the correct of self-government, exemplifies self-governance on a societal scale. Nations and areas exercising autonomy handle their very own affairs impartial of exterior management. This idea hyperlinks on to the “auto-” prefix, highlighting self-determination as a key side of self-governance.
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Particular person Self-Reliance
Private autonomy, the capability for particular person self-direction and impartial thought, displays self-governance on a private degree. People exhibiting self-reliance handle their very own lives, making choices based mostly on inner values and judgments. This connects to the “auto-” prefix by emphasizing the person’s capability for self-action and management.
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Automated Techniques and Self-Regulation
Automated methods, functioning independently with out exterior enter, exemplify self-governance in expertise. Self-regulating mechanisms in software program or robotics reveal the precept of self-action embedded throughout the “auto-” prefix. These methods embody self-governance by working in accordance with pre-programmed guidelines and inner suggestions loops.
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Organic Homeostasis
Organic homeostasis, the power of organisms to keep up inner stability, represents self-governance within the pure world. The human physique, for instance, self-regulates temperature and different important features. This inherent capability for self-regulation underscores the “auto-” prefix’s affiliation with self-acting organic processes.
These sides of self-governance, spanning political methods, particular person habits, expertise, and biology, reveal the broad applicability of the “auto-” prefix. This exploration illustrates how the core idea of self-direction, inherent in self-governance, connects various fields by a shared emphasis on autonomous motion and management. Understanding this connection gives a complete framework for deciphering the which means and implications of “auto-” vocabulary in varied contexts.
4. Private Narratives (Autobiography)
Autobiography, a style centered on self-representation, holds a singular place throughout the spectrum of “auto-” phrases. Derived from the Greek “autos” (self), “bios” (life), and “graphein” (to write down), the time period actually signifies “self-life writing.” This style exemplifies the “auto-” prefix’s connection to non-public narratives, providing a lens by which people discover and articulate their lived experiences. Inspecting the sides of autobiography gives a deeper understanding of the interaction between self-representation, narrative building, and the broader implications of “auto-” vocabulary.
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Self-Building and Identification
Autobiography acts as a platform for self-construction, permitting people to form and current their identities by narrative. Authors make selections about which experiences to incorporate, the right way to body them, and what which means to ascribe to them. This means of self-construction highlights the company inherent in autobiographical writing, echoing the “auto-” prefix’s emphasis on self-action and management.
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Reminiscence and Interpretation
Reminiscence performs a vital position in autobiographical narratives. Authors grapple with the subjective nature of reminiscence, acknowledging the potential for distortion and reinterpretation over time. This engagement with reminiscence aligns with the “auto-” prefix’s give attention to the self, recognizing the person’s distinctive perspective in shaping their life story.
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Narrative Authority and Authenticity
Autobiography raises questions on narrative authority and authenticity. Whereas introduced as a factual account of a life, autobiography inevitably entails subjective interpretation and selective illustration. This pressure between reality and interpretation provides complexity to the “auto-” prefix’s notion of self-representation, highlighting the constructed nature of private narratives.
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Public vs. Personal Self
The act of writing autobiography typically entails navigating the boundary between private and non-private selves. Authors make selections about how a lot of their inside lives to disclose to an viewers, negotiating the strain between self-disclosure and self-protection. This negotiation of private and non-private selves additional nuances the “auto-” prefix’s connection to non-public narratives, highlighting the advanced interaction between self-representation and exterior notion.
These sides of autobiography illustrate the style’s advanced relationship with the “auto-” prefix. Autobiography leverages the idea of self-representation to discover the intricacies of identification, reminiscence, and narrative authority. By inspecting how people assemble and current their lived experiences, autobiography affords helpful insights into the broader implications of “auto-” vocabulary, notably its give attention to self-action, self-expression, and the complexities of selfhood.
5. Technological Automation
Technological automation, a defining attribute of contemporary society, reveals a powerful connection to phrases incorporating the “auto-” prefix. This prefix, derived from the Greek “autos” (self), signifies impartial operation, an idea central to automated methods. Technological automation depends on self-acting equipment and processes to carry out duties with out steady human intervention. This relationship is obvious in varied functions, from automated manufacturing processes to self-driving automobiles. The cause-and-effect relationship is obvious: the will for elevated effectivity, decreased human error, and enhanced productiveness drives the event of automated applied sciences, which in flip depend on the ideas embodied by the “auto-” prefix. For instance, automated meeting strains in factories make the most of robotic arms and programmed equipment to carry out repetitive duties with higher precision and pace than human staff. This automation, derived from the idea of self-action, leads to elevated manufacturing charges and decreased manufacturing prices.
The significance of technological automation as a part of “auto-” phrases stems from its pervasive affect throughout varied industries. Automated methods are important for optimizing processes, enhancing high quality management, and enabling new functionalities. In logistics, automated warehouses make the most of robots for environment friendly stock administration and order success. In healthcare, automated diagnostic instruments help medical professionals in analyzing affected person knowledge and making knowledgeable choices. These real-world examples illustrate the sensible significance of understanding the connection between technological automation and “auto-” vocabulary. This understanding permits for a extra nuanced appreciation of the underlying ideas driving technological developments and their societal impression.
In abstract, technological automation represents a major manifestation of the “auto-” prefix. The flexibility of machines and methods to function independently, a core precept of automation, stems instantly from the idea of self-action embedded inside “auto-.” Recognizing this connection gives a deeper understanding of the driving forces behind technological innovation and the growing prevalence of automated methods throughout various sectors. This understanding is essential for navigating the evolving panorama of expertise and its implications for the way forward for work, business, and society. Addressing the challenges and alternatives introduced by technological automation requires a nuanced understanding of its core ideas, together with the idea of self-action represented by the “auto-” prefix.
6. Greek Origin (“autos”)
The Greek origin of “autos,” which means “self,” types the etymological basis for quite a few English phrases incorporating “auto-.” This prefix carries the semantic weight of self-action, self-governance, or an computerized course of. Understanding this root clarifies the which means and utilization of such vocabulary. The cause-and-effect relationship is direct: the adoption of “autos” into English as a prefix resulted in a selected class of phrases regarding self-operation or self-reference. The significance of “autos” as a part of those phrases lies in its potential to convey advanced ideas concisely. As an illustration, “vehicle” clearly denotes a self-propelled automobile, whereas “computerized” describes a course of occurring with out exterior intervention. These examples reveal how “autos” contributes to environment friendly communication concerning self-acting entities or processes.
Additional evaluation reveals that “autos” performs a vital position in varied disciplines. In engineering, “automation” describes processes carried out by machines with out human management. In literature, “autobiography” refers to a self-written account of 1’s life. In biology, “autonomic” describes the nervous system regulating involuntary bodily features. These various functions reveal the widespread affect of “autos” throughout totally different fields. The sensible significance of this understanding lies in recognizing the underlying connection between seemingly disparate phrases. Recognizing the shared root permits for a extra nuanced interpretation of those phrases and facilitates interdisciplinary communication.
In abstract, the Greek origin of “autos” gives a unifying framework for understanding phrases incorporating the “auto-” prefix. This etymological hyperlink clarifies the which means of self-action, self-governance, and computerized processes throughout various fields. Recognizing this connection enhances comprehension of technical terminology, facilitates interdisciplinary communication, and gives insights into the historic evolution of language associated to automation and self-reference. This understanding proves essential in navigating the complexities of terminology in a world more and more reliant on automated methods and self-regulating processes.
7. Usually a prefix
The morpheme “auto-” predominantly features as a prefix, attaching to root phrases to change their which means. This attribute is central to understanding its utilization and significance in vocabulary. Exploring its position as a prefix gives a scientific strategy to analyzing and deciphering “auto-” phrases. This exploration considers varied sides of its prefixal nature, together with its grammatical perform, its impression on phrase formation, and its contribution to conveying nuanced meanings.
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Grammatical Operate
“Auto-” constantly operates as a prefix, previous the foundation phrase. This grammatical position distinguishes it from suffixes, which observe the foundation, and infixes, which happen throughout the root. Its prefixal nature contributes to the predictable construction of “auto-” phrases, permitting for simpler identification and interpretation.
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Semantic Modification
As a prefix, “auto-” modifies the which means of the foundation phrase, usually conveying a way of self-action, self-governance, or an computerized course of. For instance, including “auto-” to “biography” (life writing) creates “autobiography” (self-life writing), shifting the main target to the self because the writer. Equally, “pilot” (one who steers) turns into “autopilot” (self-steering), denoting automated management. This modification of which means demonstrates the prefix’s semantic energy.
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Phrase Formation and Neologisms
The prefix “auto-” facilitates the creation of recent phrases (neologisms) to explain rising applied sciences and ideas. As expertise advances, new functions of automation and self-regulating methods require applicable terminology. “Auto-” gives a ready-made constructing block for establishing these neologisms, guaranteeing readability and consistency in scientific and technical discourse.
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Cross-Disciplinary Functions
The prefix “auto-” seems throughout varied disciplines, from engineering and computing to biology and literature. Its constant utilization as a prefix maintains readability and coherence throughout these fields, permitting for simpler switch of information and interdisciplinary communication.
In abstract, the prefixal nature of “auto-” performs a vital position in its widespread utilization and constant which means throughout various fields. Understanding its grammatical perform, semantic impression, and contribution to phrase formation gives helpful insights into the construction and interpretation of “auto-” vocabulary. This understanding is important for efficient communication in each technical and non-technical contexts, notably as expertise continues to advance and new “auto-” phrases emerge.
8. Implies Independence
The idea of independence is intrinsically linked to phrases incorporating the “auto-” prefix. Derived from the Greek “autos” (self), this prefix signifies self-reliance, self-governance, and autonomous operation. The presence of “auto-” inside a phrase typically implies a capability for impartial motion or existence, free from exterior management. This connection between “auto-” and independence manifests in varied technological, organic, and societal contexts. The cause-and-effect relationship is obvious: the will for impartial operation drives the event of applied sciences and methods incorporating “auto-” ideas, leading to automated processes, self-regulating mechanisms, and autonomous entities. As an illustration, the event of the car aimed to offer impartial transportation, releasing people from reliance on mounted routes or exterior drivers. Equally, the automation of commercial processes sought to create self-operating methods, decreasing the necessity for fixed human intervention and growing effectivity.
The significance of independence as a part of “auto-” phrases stems from its affiliation with effectivity, self-reliance, and freedom from exterior constraints. Automated methods, exemplified by automated manufacturing processes and self-driving automobiles, function independently, growing productiveness and decreasing human error. Organic methods, such because the autonomic nervous system, regulate important features independently, guaranteeing organismal survival. Politically, autonomy signifies self-governance, reflecting a nation’s or area’s independence in managing its personal affairs. These examples illustrate the sensible significance of understanding the connection between independence and “auto-” vocabulary: it gives insights into the design and performance of each synthetic and pure methods that prioritize self-sufficiency and autonomous operation. This understanding clarifies the motivations behind technological developments, the ideas governing organic methods, and the dynamics shaping political landscapes.
In conclusion, the idea of independence is deeply intertwined with phrases containing the “auto-” prefix. “Auto-” signifies self-reliance and autonomous operation, qualities important for reaching independence in varied technological, organic, and societal domains. Recognizing this inherent connection enhances comprehension of the underlying ideas driving automation, self-regulation, and autonomy. This understanding affords a extra nuanced perspective on the continued growth of self-sufficient methods and their impression throughout various fields. Addressing the challenges and alternatives introduced by growing independence in each synthetic and pure methods requires a transparent understanding of the core ideas embedded inside “auto-” vocabulary.
9. Conveys Self-Reliance
Self-reliance, the capability to rely on one’s personal capabilities and assets, types a major conceptual hyperlink with phrases incorporating the “auto-” prefix. Derived from the Greek “autos” (self), this prefix signifies impartial operation and self-governance. The presence of “auto-” typically signifies an inherent potential to perform autonomously, with out exterior help or management. This connection between “auto-” and self-reliance manifests throughout various domains, from expertise and biology to particular person habits. The cause-and-effect relationship is obvious: the pursuit of self-reliance fuels the event of applied sciences and methods embodying “auto-” ideas. Automated processes, self-regulating mechanisms, and autonomous entities all try to attenuate reliance on exterior components. As an illustration, the event of automated navigation methods goals to cut back reliance on human pilots, enhancing security and effectivity in aviation and maritime transport. Equally, the design of self-sustaining ecosystems seeks to attenuate reliance on exterior assets, selling ecological stability and resilience.
The significance of self-reliance as a part of “auto-” phrases stems from its affiliation with resilience, effectivity, and flexibility. Automated methods, exemplified by self-regulating energy grids and autonomous robots, improve operational effectivity by decreasing dependence on human intervention. Organic methods, such because the autonomic nervous system, keep homeostasis by self-regulation, guaranteeing organismal stability in fluctuating environments. Societal constructions, together with self-governing communities, promote resilience by fostering self-sufficiency and decreasing reliance on exterior help. These various examples illustrate the sensible significance of understanding the connection between self-reliance and “auto-” vocabulary: it gives insights into the design and performance of methods prioritizing autonomy and independence. This understanding clarifies the motivations behind technological developments, the ideas governing organic methods, and the dynamics shaping societal constructions.
In abstract, the idea of self-reliance is deeply intertwined with phrases containing the “auto-” prefix. “Auto-” signifies impartial operation and self-governance, qualities important for reaching self-reliance in varied technological, organic, and societal contexts. Recognizing this connection gives a extra nuanced understanding of the underlying ideas driving automation, self-regulation, and autonomy. This angle is more and more essential for navigating a world characterised by rising interdependence and the simultaneous pursuit of self-sufficiency in various methods. Addressing the advanced interaction between self-reliance and exterior dependencies requires a transparent understanding of the core ideas embodied inside “auto-” vocabulary.
Regularly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning vocabulary incorporating the “auto-” prefix, aiming to make clear potential misunderstandings and supply additional insights.
Query 1: Does the “auto-” prefix all the time point out full automation or self-action?
Not essentially. Whereas “auto-” typically implies self-action or automation, the diploma of independence can differ. For instance, “autocorrect” assists with spelling however requires consumer enter, whereas “autopilot” can management an plane for prolonged intervals. The particular degree of automation relies on the context and the whole phrase.
Query 2: Are all phrases with “auto-” associated to expertise or equipment?
No. Whereas “auto-” often seems in technological contexts, its utilization extends to different domains. “Autobiography,” specializing in private narratives, and “autonomy,” regarding self-governance, reveal its software past equipment.
Query 3: How does the Greek origin of “autos” inform the which means of “auto-” phrases?
The Greek “autos” means “self.” This origin instantly informs the core which means of “auto-” as self-action, self-governance, or an computerized course of. Understanding this root clarifies the semantic connection between various “auto-” phrases.
Query 4: Is there a distinction between “computerized” and “automated”?
“Automated” usually describes one thing working independently with out exterior intervention. “Automated” typically refers to a course of that was beforehand guide however is now carried out by a machine or system. The excellence is refined however pertains to the presence or absence of prior human involvement.
Query 5: How does understanding “auto-” phrases profit comprehension in several fields?
Recognizing the shared which means of “auto-” facilitates understanding throughout disciplines. Whether or not encountering “automation” in engineering, “autonomic” in biology, or “autocracy” in political science, the widespread root clarifies the underlying idea of self-action or self-governance.
Query 6: Can the “auto-” prefix be used to create new phrases?
Sure. The “auto-” prefix stays productive, permitting for the creation of neologisms to explain new applied sciences and ideas associated to self-action or automation. As expertise evolves, new “auto-” phrases are prone to emerge.
Understanding the nuances of “auto-” vocabulary enhances comprehension throughout varied disciplines. Recognizing the core which means of self-action or self-governance, in addition to the potential variations in automation ranges, permits for extra exact interpretation of those phrases in various contexts.
Additional exploration of particular “auto-” phrases and their functions in several fields will present a deeper understanding of this versatile prefix.
Suggestions for Understanding “Auto-” Vocabulary
Successfully using and deciphering vocabulary incorporating the “auto-” prefix requires understanding its core which means and various functions. The next ideas present steering for navigating the nuances of “auto-” phrases.
Tip 1: Contemplate the Root Phrase: The “auto-” prefix modifies the which means of the foundation phrase. Understanding the foundation’s which means is essential for deciphering the whole phrase. For instance, “auto” + “biography” (life writing) yields “autobiography” (self-life writing). Give attention to how “auto-” alters the foundation’s core which means.
Tip 2: Acknowledge the Diploma of Automation: “Auto-” doesn’t all the time indicate full automation. The diploma of self-action can differ. “Autocorrect” gives help, whereas “autopilot” permits for extra intensive impartial operation. Contemplate the particular context to find out the extent of automation implied.
Tip 3: Discover Cross-Disciplinary Functions: “Auto-” vocabulary seems in various fields. Recognizing its constant which means throughout disciplines enhances comprehension. “Automation” in engineering, “autonomic” in biology, and “autonomy” in political science all relate to the core idea of self-action or self-governance.
Tip 4: Distinguish Between “Automated” and “Automated”: “Automated” usually describes one thing working independently with out exterior intervention, whereas “automated” typically refers to a course of beforehand carried out manually however now dealt with by a machine or system. The refined distinction highlights the presence or absence of prior human involvement.
Tip 5: Contemplate the Greek Origin: Remembering the Greek root “autos” (self) reinforces the core which means of “auto-” phrases. This consciousness facilitates correct interpretation, notably when encountering unfamiliar phrases.
Tip 6: Be Conscious of Nuances: Whereas “auto-” typically signifies self-action, nuances exist. Context is essential. “Autocratic,” for instance, refers to self-rule however with implications for management kinds. Contemplate the particular implications inside every context.
Tip 7: Keep Present with Neologisms: “Auto-” stays a productive prefix, producing neologisms for rising applied sciences and ideas. Staying knowledgeable about new “auto-” phrases enhances comprehension in quickly evolving fields.
By making use of the following tips, one can successfully interpret and make the most of “auto-” vocabulary, fostering clearer communication and a deeper understanding of ideas associated to self-action, self-governance, and computerized processes.
These insights pave the best way for a complete conclusion, summarizing the importance and various functions of the “auto-” prefix.
Conclusion
Exploration of vocabulary incorporating “auto-” reveals its significance throughout various fields. From technological automation streamlining industrial processes to autobiographical narratives providing private insights, the idea of “self” embedded inside “auto-” performs a vital position in shaping communication and understanding. Key facets examined embrace self-governance in political and organic methods, the historic evolution of “autos” from its Greek origin, and the prevalence of computerized processes in fashionable expertise. The prefix’s potential to suggest independence and self-reliance underscores its significance in conveying advanced concepts concisely.
The “auto-” prefix continues to form language and thought, reflecting ongoing developments in automation and a rising emphasis on particular person autonomy. Additional exploration of its evolving functions stays essential for navigating an more and more advanced world characterised by self-regulating methods and a heightened give attention to self-expression. A deeper understanding of “auto-” vocabulary gives helpful insights into the interaction between expertise, human company, and the continued pursuit of self-reliance in various contexts.
