What concept aligns law with individual autonomy and self-determination?

Libertarian legal theory emphasizes individual autonomy and self-determination as fundamental principles of law. This theory advocates that individuals should have the freedom to make choices regarding their lives as long as those choices do not infringe on the rights of others. It upholds the idea that personal liberty is paramount, and the role of law is to protect these freedoms rather than to impose limitations on individual actions or moral choices.

In contrast, legal paternalism involves the state making decisions for individuals under the belief that this protects them from harm, which inherently reduces personal autonomy. Legal moralism focuses on the idea that laws should enforce moral standards, which can limit individual freedom in favor of societal norms. Social contract theory, while discussing the agreement among individuals to form a society, often involves some compromises on individual autonomy for the sake of societal order. In distinguishing these concepts, libertarian legal theory stands out by prioritizing individual rights and self-determination.