Reflections On Mimetic Desire And Society Breakthroughs In Mimetic Theory

If you have ever found yourself intrigued by the root of desire and how it shapes our society, then understanding mimetic desire and its breakthroughs in mimetic theory may provide you with a fresh perspective. Mimetic desire refers to the idea that our desires do not originate from within ourselves, but rather from the imitation of others. It is through this imitation that our desires are formed, leading to a complex web of social dynamics that impact our daily lives and society as a whole.

Throughout history, scholars and philosophers have explored the concept of desire and its implications in society. However, it was French philosopher Rene Girard who made significant breakthroughs in understanding the role of mimetic desire in shaping human behavior. Girard's mimetic theory posits that desire is not a purely individualistic experience, but rather a social phenomenon that arises from the imitative nature of humans.

The Mechanics of Mimetic Desire

To comprehend mimetic desire, one must delve into its mechanics. Humans are social beings who learn and acquire desires through the observation and imitation of others. This process of imitation begins in childhood when children mimic their parents and those around them. As they grow older, their desires extend beyond their immediate environment to encompass desires of their peers, celebrities, and societal figures.

Ressentiment: Reflections on Mimetic Desire and Society (Breakthroughs in Mimetic Theory)

by John Rosemond (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	542 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	246 pages

FREE

Mimetic desire operates on the principle of perceived lack. When we observe others attaining or possessing something we desire, a sense of lack is triggered within us. This perceived lack fuels our desire to imitate the other person and acquire the same object. It is this reciprocal imitation that lays the foundation for a powerful mimetic cycle that drives our social interactions and shapes our society.

Societal Implications of Mimetic Desire

The influence of mimetic desire extends far beyond individual desires and permeates various aspects of our society. One of the prominent implications of mimetic desire is the creation and perpetuation of social norms and trends. From fashion trends to consumer behaviors, mimetic desire drives individuals to conform to the desires of others, leading to the emergence of societal patterns.

Mimetic desire also plays a significant role in the formation of social hierarchies and power dynamics. As individuals compete for the same desires, conflicts and rivalries arise. Girard argues that these rivalries can escalate into violent conflicts, as individuals seek to protect their desires by eliminating the perceived threat. Thus, mimetic desire has the potential to both unite and divide society, depending on how it is managed and channeled.

Breakthroughs in Mimetic Theory

Girard's mimetic theory has sparked numerous breakthroughs in our understanding of desire and society. One of the crucial breakthroughs is the acknowledgment that desire is not solely rooted in individual psychological factors, but is profoundly influenced by the social context. This recognition challenges traditional psychological theories that attribute desires solely to internal processes.

Furthermore, the concept of mimetic desire opens up avenues for exploring and understanding conflict within society. By delving into the mimetic nature of rivalries and violence, scholars have gained insights into the origins of social unrest and have the potential to develop strategies for conflict resolution.

Applying Mimetic Theory to Break Free from Negative Influences

Understanding the mechanics of mimetic desire can have a profound impact on our everyday lives. By recognizing that our desires are not always authentic but influenced by external factors, we can gain autonomy over our choices and break free from negative influences.

One way to apply mimetic theory is by critically assessing our own desires and questioning their origins. It is essential to distinguish between genuine desires and those shaped by mimetic imitation. By doing so, we can align our desires with our true values and aspirations, rather than blindly pursuing what others desire.

Additionally, understanding mimetic desire enables us to navigate societal pressures and avoid falling into the traps of perpetual comparison and competition. By recognizing the power of imitation in shaping desires, we can develop a healthier relationship with social media, advertising, and societal expectations.

Reflections on mimetic desire and the breakthroughs in mimetic theory provide us with valuable insights into the complexity of desire and society. By understanding the mechanics of mimetic desire, its societal implications, and the breakthroughs in mimetic theory, we can gain a deeper understanding of human behavior and possibly influence positive change within ourselves and society.

Ressentiment: Reflections on Mimetic Desire and Society (Breakthroughs in Mimetic Theory)

by John Rosemond (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	542 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	246 pages

FREE

This book is a response to Friedrich Nietzsche’s provocative question: How much and how does ressentiment condition our daily life? During the twentieth century we witnessed veritable eruptions of this insidious emotion, and we are still witnesses of its proliferation at various levels of society. This book aims to explore, according to René Girard’s mimetic theory, the anthropological and social assumptions that make up ressentiment and to investigate its genesis. The analysis of ressentiment shows that this emotion evolves from mimetic desire: it is an affective experience that people have when a rival denies them opportunities or valuable resources (including status) that they consider to be socially accessible. It is a specific figure of mimetic desire that is typical of contemporary society, where the equality that is proclaimed at the level of values contrasts with striking inequalities of power and access to material resources. This dichotomy generates increasing tension between highly competitive and egalitarian mimetic desires and growing social inequalities. The ressentiment is ambiguous, and its ambiguity is that of mimetic desire itself, which we cannot dismiss from our lives. In that it provides occasions of conflict and baseness, ressentiment can fuel violence, discord, and injustice, but it also can open opportunities for growth and justice, and for inventing institutions that are better adapted to the transformations of our contemporary society.