Intersections of Mimetic Theory: Theological Insights and Societal Responses

The first paper explores the relationship between mimetic desire and knowledge, juxtaposing Girard’s theory with insights from the contemplative masterpiece The Cloud of Unknowing. It argues that true knowledge—far from being a mere collection of facts—emerges from the transformation of desire, moving from rivalry to peace. This interdisciplinary approach challenges conventional understandings of cognition, emphasizing the integral roles of affect and embodiment.

The second paper stages a critical conversation between Girard’s views on societal responses to disaster and the observations made by Rebecca Solnit in A Paradise Built in Hell. While Girard perceives social disasters as breeding grounds for mimetic violence and scapegoating, Solnit identifies a contrasting human tendency towards altruism, solidarity, and mutual aid in the face of crises. This paper explores the conditions under which these seemingly opposite reactions occur, proposing that societal responses to disaster may hinge on the prevailing social models and narratives.