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The Power of Social Comparison and Mimicry
Social comparison leads to a sense of lack when observing others' achievements or possessions, driving individuals to seek validation through gaining similar achievements. René Girard's theory highlights that people mimic not what others do, but what others desire. This concept underscores the fundamental human tendency to look to others for cues on what to want, making individuals highly sensitive to the desires of their reference group. Advertisers have capitalized on this phenomenon by shaping their messaging to create a sense of universal desire for their products.