Autonomy is a research area that explores the ability of individuals or systems to operate independently, without external control or influence. This can refer to various aspects such as decision-making, behavior, and self-governance. In the context of artificial intelligence and robotics, autonomy research focuses on developing machines that can perform tasks and make decisions without human intervention. Autonomy research also encompasses fields such as psychology, sociology, and political science, where it examines how individuals or groups can achieve self-determination and independence. Overall, autonomy research seeks to understand and enhance the capacity for self-direction and self-regulation in various domains.