Godsplaining Why We Want What Others Want: Mimetic Theory & the Gospel w/ Fr. Elias Carr
Aug 18, 2025
Fr. Elias Carr, a Canon regular from Austria and author of "I Came to Cast Fire," explores the intriguing concept of mimetic desire, explaining how it shapes our relationships and culture. He connects René Girard's insights on desire and violence to today's prevalent polarization and conflict, offering actionable ways to embody the Gospel's teachings. The conversation also delves into identity formation, the significance of authenticity in faith, and the vital role of Mary in the salvation narrative.
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First Encounter With Girard
- Fr. Elias Carr discovered René Girard’s work in 2001 after buying I See Satan Fall Like Lightning and immediately found it transformative.
- He tested Girard’s insights empirically during 9/11 and the 2002 priest scandals, which reinforced his conviction.
Desire Is Learned By Imitation
- Girard argues humans are desiring creatures who learn what to want by imitating others rather than having pre-formed desires.
- That mimetic formation of desire reflects a deeper metaphysical longing to "be," which drives rivalry and conflict.
Scapegoating Creates Culture
- Early human groups resolved mimetic rivalry by unconsciously uniting against a scapegoat, which produced myths and rituals.
- Scapegoating both purges violence and generates culture by sacralizing the expelled victim.
