Lesson 1: The Basics of Mimetic Theory

In this lesson, we will introduce the key concepts of Mimetic Theory, a theory of human behavior developed by French thinker Rene Girard. Mimetic Theory is based on the idea that human beings are fundamentally imitative creatures, and that our desires and actions are shaped by our relationships with others.

Mimetic Desire

The central concept of Mimetic Theory is that of 'mimetic desire'. This refers to the way in which our desires are shaped by the desires of others. We do not simply desire things because we need or want them, but because we see that others desire them as well. This creates a cycle of imitation, as we imitate the desires of others, and they in turn imitate ours.

For example, imagine a child who is perfectly content playing with a toy until another child comes along and expresses interest in it. Suddenly, the first child's desire for the toy is heightened, and they may even become possessive or jealous of it. This is an example of mimetic desire in action.

Mimesis

Mimetic desire is closely linked to the concept of 'mimesis', which refers to the process of imitation itself. According to Girard, all human behavior is based on mimesis, and it is through mimesis that we learn to desire certain things.

Mimesis is not limited to desire, however. It also shapes our relationships with others, as we imitate their behavior and attitudes. This can create a sense of unity and social cohesion, but it can also lead to conflict and rivalry, as we compete for the same desires.

Further Reading

If you are interested in learning more about Mimetic Theory, we recommend the following texts:

• Rene Girard, Violence and the Sacred
• Rene Girard, Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World
• Wolfgang Palaver, Rene Girard's Mimetic Theory

Quiz

1. What is the central concept of Mimetic Theory?

   A. Mimesis B. Mimetic desire C. Social cohesion D. Conflict and rivalry

   Answer: B. Mimetic desire

   Incorrect answers:

   • A. Mimesis is important, but is not the central concept of Mimetic Theory.
   • C. Social cohesion is a possible outcome of mimesis and mimetic desire, but is not the central concept.
   • D. Conflict and rivalry are outcomes of mimetic desire, but are not the central concept of Mimetic Theory.

2. What is mimesis?

   A. The process of imitation B. The desire for things that others desire C. A sense of social unity D. The outcome of conflict and rivalry

   Answer: A. The process of imitation

   Incorrect answers:

   • B. Mimetic desire is the desire for things that others desire, not the process of imitation itself.
   • C. A sense of social unity can be a result of mimesis, but is not the same thing as mimesis.
   • D. The outcome of conflict and rivalry may involve mimesis, but is not the definition of mimesis itself.

3. Which text by Rene Girard is a recommended further reading?

   A. The Imitation of Christ B. The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness C. Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World D. The Social Construction of Reality

   Answer: C. Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World

   Incorrect answers:

   • A. The Imitation of Christ is a religious text, not a work of Mimetic Theory.
   • B. The Anatomy of Human Destructiveness is a work of psychology, not Mimetic Theory.
   • D. The Social Construction of Reality is a work of sociology, not Mimetic Theory.

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