individuos

Individuos is the plural form of individuo in Spanish, commonly used in discussions about individuals in biology, philosophy, sociology, and law. The term designates a single, distinct member of a population or category, and it is closely tied to the idea of individuality—the set of characteristics that differentiate one member from another and from a class or type.

Etymology: from Latin individuus meaning “undivided”; in Spanish and other Romance languages it evolved to denote a concrete, separable unit within a larger whole.

In biology, an individuo is a single organism, capable of functioning as a separate unit. In some contexts, especially with clonal species, the term may refer to a genet (the genetic individual) or to a ramet (a physiologically independent member of a clone).

In philosophy, an individuo is a concrete particular, contrasted with universals or kinds. Questions about identity and persistence over time—what makes an ongoing entity the same individual—are central to debates on numerical identity, constitution, and the nature of the self.

In social sciences and law, individuos are considered as agents or persons who act, bear rights, and assume responsibilities within social and legal frameworks. The concept underpins discussions of autonomy, rights, privacy, and data protection, as well as sampling and analysis in research, where individuals serve as units of observation.