How is mimetic desire contagious? What is mimetic contagion?
The mimetic character of desire means that desire is highly contagious. We often use the word “contagion.” In positive mimesis, when people see others dealing with conflict in positive ways, others seek to emulate those positive responses to conflict. If we can listen to the other person and discuss with the other person in a spirit of respect and compassion, then doors that lead to positive, creative solutions will open up. On the other hand, when we see others dealing with conflict in negative ways, we can be influenced to deal with our own conflicts in negative ways. Name calling, cussing, shouting, and gossiping only lead to further distance in the chasm of conflict. A modern example might be helpful here. In September, 2007, MoveOn.org published an article in the New York Times about General Petraeus, the new General in charge of the US troops in Iraq. The article referred to General Petraeus as “General Betray Us” after he spoke to Congress about the progress of the war. This exa
