Selbstherrschaft

Selbstherrschaft, a German term, translates to self-rule or self-governance. It denotes the principle of individuals or groups exercising authority over themselves, free from external control or domination. This concept can manifest at various levels, from personal autonomy to the political self-determination of a nation. On an individual level, Selbstherrschaft implies the capacity for independent thought, decision-making, and action, guided by one's own reason and will. It is closely linked to notions of freedom, responsibility, and personal sovereignty.

In a political context, Selbstherrschaft refers to the sovereignty of a people or a state. It signifies the right of a nation or community to govern itself, to establish its own laws, and to determine its own destiny without interference from other powers. This principle is a cornerstone of modern democratic thought and international law, underpinning the idea that legitimate political authority derives from the consent of the governed. Historically, the pursuit of Selbstherrschaft has been a driving force behind independence movements and revolutions across the globe. The concept emphasizes collective agency and the inherent right of a people to shape their own political and social order according to their collective will and aspirations.