Originating from the French phrase meaning “provoking agent,” the term #1excludeGlossary has a storied past. Initially, it described individuals who were strategically placed to incite unlawful actions, often to undermine or expose political adversaries. This tactic was notably used in the 19th and early 20th centuries by various governments. Fast forward to today, and the term has taken on new life within the cannabis industry. Here, an agent provocateur might be seen as a trailblazer or disruptor, someone who challenges existing norms and pushes for progressive change. In the rapidly evolving world of cannabis, these provocateurs play a crucial role in driving innovation and sparking debate, whether it’s about legalization, cultural acceptance, or new product development. By understanding the historical and contemporary significance of an agent provocateur, cannabis enthusiasts can better appreciate the dynamic forces at play in this burgeoning industry. [Source: Merriam-Webster, History.com]
An agent provocateur (French for 'inciting agent') is a person who actively entices, encourages and incites another person to commit a crime that would not otherwise have been committed and then reports the person to the authorities. They may target individuals or groups.
In jurisdictions in which conspiracy is a serious crime in itself, it can be sufficient for the agent provocateur to entrap the target into discussing and planning an illegal act. It is not necessary for the illegal act to be carried out or even prepared.
Prevention of infiltration by agents provocateurs is part of the duty of demonstration marshals, also called stewards, deployed by organizers of large or controversial assemblies.
English
Etymology
Borrowed from French agent provocateur (literally “provocative agent”).
Pronunciation
- (US) IPA(key): /ˌɑʒɑnt pɹəˌvɔkəˈtɝ/, /-ˈtʊəɹ/, /ˌɑʒɑ̃-/
- (UK) IPA(key): /ˌæʒɒ̃ pɹəˌvɒkəˈtɜː/, /ˌeɪd͡ʒənt-/
Noun
agent provocateur (plural agents provocateurs)
- A person who secretly disrupts a group's activities from within the group, particularly by encouraging or committing illegal acts to discredit the group or expose them to prosecution; an instigator, troublemaker.