Johnathan Bi Lecture I: Introduction to Mimetic Theory | René Girard's Mimetic Theory
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May 25, 2022 
David Perel, a passionate moderator of a lecture series on René Girard's mimetic theory, shares his enlightening journey through Girard's transformative work. They dive deep into how mimetic desire shapes our ambitions and societal interactions. Perel discusses the scapegoat mechanism, demonstrating its cyclical nature and influence on group dynamics, while contrasting ancient narratives with contemporary challenges. The conversation highlights the interplay of faith and science, revealing layers of morality and the complexities of human relationships in a modern context.
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Bi's Girardian Journey
- Johnathan Bi's interest in Girard stemmed from personal struggles, not academic curiosity.
- He found Girard's work during a period of existential despair at Columbia University.
The Hollowness of Mimesis
- Mimesis drives people to pursue things for social acceptance, not genuine desire.
- This leads to hollowness, even in success, as victories feel meaningless.
Parental Mimesis
- David Perell observed mimetic behavior in high school, with parents competing over their children's school prestige.
- The ultimate prize was a university bumper sticker on their car.