Lecture I: Introduction to Mimetic Theory | René Girard's Mimetic Theory

Girard believes that the way we go about choosing which objects to go after is by imitating those whom we already consider possessing this fullness of being (celebrities, parents, entrepreneurs, etc.)

When we say something is prestigious we are perhaps also saying that on its own it does not deserve the value we attribute to it (Rolex, Harvard, Bentley, etc.). The value we attribute to it is not fully accounted for by the objects themselves (there’s some value the object doesn’t deserve). Girard would say that that extra value does not come from... See more

Girard’s theory of human nature explains the true origin of desire and its consequences if not directed properly

For Girard, there are two branches of motivational forces of human natureMetaphysical desire (identity) Physical desire (aims at experience)

Sociality is the most powerful and explanatory element within the human psyche

His ideas do not magically make us stop being mimetic. The mimetic theory gives us a framework to avoid situations that inspire debilitating desires; what type of person to avoid and who to keep close

Recipe for misery: Pursue things because society tells you to, not because you truly want them. Achievements are meaningless if they aren’t out of our desires but a product of mimesis.

Our values, aesthetics, taste, and even philosophical positions are often heavily defined by others in deep and unconscious ways

Just as mimesis and metaphysical desire can make people conform they can also make people divide: Breaking away from the group to carve your own path can also be socially determined, s howing up with a cheap shirt to a dinner where everyone is wearing expensive suits is in some sense also a power play, y ou are so much better than the rest of them ... See more