The Need for a Scapegoat

I have been reading on the web several articles by and about Rene Girard. He's the founder (if that's the word) of the theory of mimetic rivalry. He says all myths involve a mob ganging up on one standout and killing him because their own violence and rivalry have become a threat to the peaceful functioning of society. The release in the mob murder of a victim is a catharsis, and the society can go back to peaceful existence. After the murder people begin to reflect on the victim and realise that he had embodied great power, because he "saved" them from one another. That's how gods get started. This notion is truly fascinating, but I'm not sure I'm convinced. Athough it is true that mobs are very mercurial and dangerous. It's started me to thinking about how we do the same (albeit on a more peaceful basis) in our lives and jobs. It provides an entirely new lens to view the everyday world. Not a particularly pleasant lens mind you.
- posted by Marcos @ 10:21 AM