The Evolution of Autonomy: From Ancient Greek City-States to the AI Era

The term "autonomy" comes from Greek, originally referring to the ability of city-states to govern themselves. Over time, its meaning has evolved, extending from individual autonomy to the modern technological field.

In the field of AI, autonomous agents represent systems capable of independently completing complex tasks. Compared to ordinary agents that require predefined workflows, autonomous agents possess stronger thinking and action abilities. In the future, encrypted networks are likely to become the infrastructure for AI to achieve high levels of autonomy.

The definition of "autonomy" in a DAO has discrepancies. The Ethereum white paper originally defined it as an organization that relies entirely on smart contract code to operate. However, in reality, most DAOs require human participation. Some believe that as technology develops, DAOs will gradually reduce their dependence on people. Others argue that human-centric DAOs and fully automated DAOs may represent two different organizational forms.

"Autonomous World" is an emerging concept that refers to a virtual world built on blockchain technology. It has strict rule boundaries, formal access mechanisms, and does not require specific individuals to maintain its operation. The appeal of this world lies in its objectivity—participants can create lasting "objective facts" under stable rules.

The concept of "autonomy" involves deep issues of human civilization. From individual consciousness to the essence of the universe, discussions about autonomy continue. In today's rapidly advancing technology, our understanding and pursuit of autonomy are also constantly evolving.