Re: Von Mises Mimesis -- Mimetic Theory and Literary Study

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Date Posted: 12:18:16 03/20/08 Thu
Author: Caitlin
Subject: Re: Von Mises Mimesis
In reply to: CS Holden 's message, "Von Mises Mimesis" on 09:27:41 03/20/08 Thu

I liked this post. It actually made me think of some GOOD things that might and do occur as the result of rivalry. Continuing with the correlation between desire and capitalism I'd like to look at the idea of rivalry bringing about something new and better. Capitalism professes that competition is good as it breeds better products at better prices. Ok. Now, I can easily see this as happening with rivalry. Consider: one individual mimics another and rivalry spurs up between them. Rivalry turns to competition which can, if the balance is kept correctly, result in a bettering of either or individual or the bettering of the object. Yes?

I think perhaps Girard hits on this point, but I can't remember for sure where it might be. I think this quote suits the argument: "Either liberated desire is channeled into competitive directions that, though enormously creative, are ultimately disappointing, or it simply ends up in sterile conflicts and anarchic confusion, with a corresponding increase in the sense of anguish" (Things Hidden 285). If desire is liberated it falls into eventual uselessness. However, I think that with some restrictions this competitive desire could possibly do some good.

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