Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M0298

Mimetic Desire

Mimetic Desire
CultureHigh supportPhilosophy
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Human desire is not spontaneous but is generated through imitation of others (mediators). We want something because we see others wanting it.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Desire audit. When you intensely desire a position, award, or item, stop and ask yourself: "Do I really need it, or is it because my competitor or idol wants it?" This helps you break free from meaningless envy and involution.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Mimetic desire, proposed by Girard, refers to the idea that human desire is not autonomous but imitates the desires of others, leading to convergence of objects and competition. It explains trends, fads, and scapegoating mechanisms.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wanting%3A_The_Power_of_Mimetic_Desire_in_Everyday_LifeZH · Explicit
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