Wanting (Book Review)
The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life by Luke Burgis
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"Wanting: The Power of Mimetic Desire in Everyday Life" by Luke Burgis offers a compelling look at how mimetic theory influences our desires, behaviors, and relationships. The book delves into the concept of mimetic desire, originally developed by the French thinker René Girard, which suggests that our desires are not entirely our own but are instead imitated from those around us.
Burgis begins by explaining the basics of mimetic theory, which posits that human beings are inherently imitative. We often want things because we see others wanting them, not necessarily because we independently value them. This imitation extends beyond material desires to goals, aspirations, and even what we consider to be our passions.
The book is structured around various real-life scenarios and historical events that illustrate how mimetic desire operates on both individual and societal levels. Burgis uses examples from business, politics, and personal relationships to show how mimetic desire can lead to conflicts and rivalries, as well as how it can be a force for good.
"Wanting" also explores the concept of models of desire. These are the people who influence our wants, often without us even realizing it. Burgis explains that our models can be close, like family and friends, or distant, like celebrities and public figures. The nature of our relationships with these models—whether they are antagonistic or cooperative—greatly affects how we form our desires.
A significant portion of the book discusses the negative aspects of unchecked mimetic desire, including envy, violence, and societal division. It examines how contemporary social media platforms amplify mimetic behavior by constantly exposing us to the desires of others, which can lead to dissatisfaction and unrest.
However, it's not all pessimistic. Burgis provides strategies for mitigating the negative effects of mimetic desire. He suggests cultivating an awareness of our imitative behaviors and choosing models that inspire positive desires and outcomes. By understanding and reorienting our mimetic impulses, we can live more fulfilling lives and build healthier communities.
"Wanting" concludes by encouraging readers to seek what Girard called "non-rivalrous desires," which are desires that do not lead to conflict with others. These might include personal growth, learning, and other internally fulfilling activities that do not depend on outdoing someone else.
Overall, "Wanting" by Luke Burgis is an insightful exploration of how deeply interwoven our desires are with the fabric of our social interactions. The book challenges us to examine the roots of our wants and to consciously choose influences that lead to positive outcomes, both for ourselves and for society at large.
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