1. The political subjection of or a control of a community by the political rule of another power or to an external law: "In heteronomy, people can not have their own form of government (autonomy) but must obey the laws of another country or government."
2. A condition in which someone or something is under the influence or domination of another person or existing power whether it is nonliving or living: "There are heteronomies that are imposed on us; such as, desires, passions, and physical or mental needs that can cause problems for individuals."