While all societies make their own imaginaries (institutions, laws, traditions, beliefs and behaviors), autonomous societies are those that their members are aware of this fact, and explicitly self-institute (αυτο-νομούνται). In contrast, the members of heteronomous societies attribute their imaginaries to some extra-social authority (i.e. God, ancestors, historical necessity)
Interpretation
The quote discusses the difference between societies that create their own systems and those that rely on external authorities for their beliefs and practices.
In this quote, Cornelius Castoriadis emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in societal structures. He distinguishes autonomous societies, where individuals recognize and actively participate in the creation of their own institutions and beliefs, from heteronomous societies, where members defer to external authorities like divine figures or historical mandates to justify their social arrangements. This highlights the significance of self-institution and the role of conscious awareness in the formation of societal norms.
In practice
In a discussion on political philosophy, one might refer to this quote to highlight the importance of self-governance.
When you meet anyone, remember it is a holy encounter. As you see him, you will see yourself. As you treat him, you will treat yourself. As you think of him, you will think of yourself. Never forget this, for in him you will find yourself or lose yourself.
We are like a judge confronted by a defendant who declines to answer, and we must determine the truth from the circumstantial evidence.
Dream delivers us to dream, and there is no end to illusion. Life is like a train of moods like a string of beads, and, as we pass through them, they prove to be many-colored lenses which paint the world their own hue. . . .
I believe this thought, of the possibility of death - if calmly realised, and steadily faced would be one of the best possible tests as to our going to any scene of amusement being right or wrong.
In war, truth is the first casualty.
In Hollywood, 'under development' means 'all I have is the title.'
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