Autonomy
Level 2
How much an AI system is allowed to do without asking a person.
Term 6 of 7 in AI agents
In plain language
Autonomy is a dial, not a switch. A low-autonomy system drafts and waits for approval. A high-autonomy one acts and reports back afterwards.
Think of it like this
The difference between an intern who checks in hourly and a contractor with keys to the building.
Why it matters
Deciding autonomy is a business decision, not a technical one. It sets how bad a single mistake can get.
Next terms in AI agents
- AI agentAn AI system that can take steps and use tools to complete a goal, not just answer.
- Tool useLetting a model call outside software to get facts or take action.
- Function callingThe mechanism that lets a model request a specific piece of software with specific inputs.
- ReasoningA model working through a problem in steps before giving an answer.