Significance of Active agent
The keyphrase "Active agent" in the context of Tibetan Buddhism refers to an entity or force capable of influencing actions and cognition. It is debated whether this active agent is cognitive processes or external entities. Various interpretations exist across traditions, including the notion of the soul as a driving force, the role of destiny, and the relationship between cognition and perception. In science, the term is applied to pharmacologically active substances that produce therapeutic effects, highlighting its relevance across diverse fields.
Synonyms: Active substance, Active ingredient, Chemical agent, Operative
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Buddhist concept of 'Active agent'
The term "Active agent" in Buddhism signifies an entity that influences outcomes, engages in actions, and facilitates cognition, while debated in the context of a universe perceived as lacking genuine activity or inherent self.
From: Tattvasangraha [with commentary]
(1) An entity that has the ability to act or exert influence, playing a role in a cause-and-effect scenario.[1] (2) The role of the Veda in producing effects and knowledge actively rather than passively.[2] (3) The entity or process that engages in perception and cognition, responsible for enabling the recognition of objects.[3] (4) The role of an object that brings about an effect, suggesting it is not a non-entity and must have some form of action.[4] (5) Refers to an entity or force that initiates or influences the cognition process.[5]
Hindu concept of 'Active agent'
In Hinduism, the term "Active agent" encompasses various interpretations, including the intellect's role in action, the expectation of results, and the misperception of soul independence, highlighting the interconnectedness of agency and reality.
From: Yoga Vasistha [English], Volume 1-4
(1) The active agent refers to the idea of a driving force or entity that participates in actions, which can be misleading in the context of the non-dual nature of reality.[6] (2) The misconception that the soul acts independently when in fact it is unified with all agency.[7] (3) The title attributed to the intellect as it actuates the human body to perform actions.[8] (4) The perceived role of destiny as a force influencing events, though some recognize it as an inactive concept.[9] (5) A person who engages in actions with the expectation of results, contrasting with those who live resigned to higher will.[10]
From: Vakyapadiya of Bhartrihari
(1) The individual or entity that performs the action in a given sentence, typically the subject of the verb.[11] (2) Refers to the subject that performs an action, specifically the king in the context of becoming a non-king, emphasizing the subject's role in enacting change.[12]
From: Bhagavatpadabhyudaya by Lakshmana Suri (study)
(1) Refers to the vimjnanamaya sheath, which plays the role of an active participant in actions and experiences.[13]
From: Prashna Upanishad with Shankara’s Commentary
(1) A term used to describe the seer, which denotes a being who perceives or observes the reality of the Purusha.[14]
From: Yoga-sutras (with Bhoja’s Rajamartanda)
(1) Entities or factors, specifically qualities, that play a significant role in influencing worldly life.[15]
From: Manusmriti with the Commentary of Medhatithi
(1) A force or entity responsible for creation, indicating that the universe and its components arise from deliberate actions.[16]
The concept of Active agent in scientific sources
The term "Active agent" pertains to therapeutic substances like 5-fluorouracil in drug formulations. These agents are essential in drug discovery, requiring effective delivery mechanisms to ensure they reach their intended treatment targets.
From: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
(1) Substances within a formulation that are responsible for the therapeutic effects.[17] (2) The pharmacologically active components in drug formulations that exert therapeutic effects.[18] (3) The chemical substance in the mouth dissolving film responsible for providing therapeutic effects.[19] (4) Active agents are substances produced through drug discovery intended for treatment, which require efficient delivery to the right targets.[20] (5) The therapeutic substance in a drug formulation, in this case, referring specifically to 5-fluorouracil when discussing its release and effects.[21]