Measuring inequality: autonomy - the degree of empowerment in decisions about one's own life

As part of the development of the Equality Measurement Framework, we commissioned research on "Measuring Inequality: Autonomy - The degree of empowerment in decisions about one's own life". This research report develops survey questions to capture and measure individuals' autonomy: the degree of choice and control they have in key areas of their lives. Review of the theoretical literature led to the identification of three components of autonomy: (i) self-reflection, (ii) active or delegated decision-making, and (iii) a wide variety of high-quality options. The report develops a template of questions for the three components, which has been cognitively tested. This project found that, despite limitations, survey measurement of the complex concept of autonomy is possible and revealing.