Unraveling Mimetic Theory: Are Our Desires Truly Ours? BY AASHKA TANK
Human desires have long been a subject
imitation leads to a cycle of "mimetic rivalry," where individuals desire the same objects due to their observation of others' desires. As mimetic rivalry intensifies, it can lead to competition and conflict. When multiple individuals desire the same object, tensions arise, potentially resulting in aggression and rivalry. Girard's theory suggests that much of human conflict, both on an individual and societal level, can be traced back to this imitative desire and the resulting competition.
of philosophical and psychological exploration. From ancient thinkers like Plato and Aristotle to contemporary scholars, understanding the origins and nature of our desires has been an ongoing quest. One intriguing perspective that sheds light on this topic is René Girard's mimetic theory. This theory delves into the idea that our desires are not inherently our own but are instead shaped by the desires of others around us. In this article, we will explore mimetic theory, the concept of Maya from Indian philosophy, and the implications they hold for the autonomy of our desires. Mimetic Theory: A Brief Overview René Girard, a French historian, literary critic, and philosopher, introduced mimetic theory in the mid-20th century. At its core, mimetic theory proposes that human desires are imitative in nature. It suggests that individuals do not develop desires in isolation, but rather, their desires are influenced by the desires and actions of others in their social environment. Girard argues that imitation is fundamental to human behavior from infancy onwards. Babies learn by imitating the gestures and expressions of their caregivers. This mimetic tendency continues into adulthood, impacting our preferences, choices, and aspirations. According to Girard, this process of
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