Philosophy recovers itself when it ceases to be a device for dealing with the problems of philosophers and becomes a method, cultivated by philosophers, for dealing with the problems of men.

John Dewey, “The Need for Recovery of Philosophy,” 1917

In terms of the medieval distinction between “the patient” and “the agent,” this freedom‐centered understanding of economics and of the process of development is very much an agent‐oriented view. With adequate social opportunities, individuals can effectively shape their own destiny and help each other. They need not be seen primarily as passive recipients of the benefits of cunning development programs. There is indeed a strong rationale for recognizing the positive role of free and sustainable agency – and even of constructive impatience.

Amartya Sen, Development as Freedom, 1999

There are, we have argued, rich lessons here [in the “developmental challenges faced in India”], which cannot be seized without taking interest in the ends and means of development in general and in the intrinsic value, constructive role and instrumental importance of public participation in particular. The basic approach involves an overarching interest in the role of human beings – on their own and in cooperation with each other – in running their own lives and in using and expanding their freedoms.

Jean Drèze and Amartya Sen, India: Development and Participation, 2nd edn., 2002