self-recognition

English

Etymology

self- +‎ recognition

Noun

self-recognition (uncountable)

1. (philosophy) The experience of one's own life, personality, etc.; recognition of oneself as a full-bodied individual.

   Synonym: self-awareness

2. A recognition made chiefly by oneself; an understanding reached by one's own thought and reflection.
   • 2021, Jones v. Mississippi (U.S. Supreme Court No. 18–1259), Justice Sotomayor dissenting:

     Graham therefore insisted that sentencers not deprive juvenile non-homicide offenders "of the opportunity to achieve maturity... and self-recognition of human worth and potential" by sentencing them to die in prison.

3. (immunology) The process by which the immune system distinguishes the body's own cells, DNA, etc. and those of a foreign, possibly pathogenic, agent.