Mimetic Desire: Why Do We Want? - Luke Burgis | Modern Wisdom Podcast 344 | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Memetic desire is a fundamental part of being human, shaping our desires and motivations, and it can lead to both positive and negative outcomes.

Key Insights

• 👁️ Memetic desire is a powerful force that stems from our imitative nature, constantly shaping our wants and desires. It can motivate and spur us on, but it can also lead to conflict and dissatisfaction. We need to be aware of our mimetic nature in order to have agency over our desires.
• 🔥 Social media platforms like Instagram are machines of generating desires, as we imitate the desires of others. This constant imitation can be bewildering and lead to unhappiness if we don't realize its influence.
• 🧬 Memetic desire is part of human nature and may have evolved as a way to separate ourselves from other animals and develop culture. It plays a role in positive things like learning, language, and social interactions. However, many people are not aware of its existence due to our hyper-individualistic view of ourselves.
• 💭 Most of our desires are memetic, as they are influenced by models or examples we see in others. While some desires may have instinctual or basic biological drives, many abstract desires are derived from models. We are born into a social process where we constantly look to others to shape our perception of value.
• ❓ Memetic desire is adaptable and can change based on the models we imitate or the desires we adopt from them. It can lead to conflict and rivalry, especially when we imitate desires from those in our close social circles. The need for differentiation arises from the similarity we share due to memetic desire.
• 🔁 Memetic desire perpetuates itself through imitation and can create homogeneity among social groups. Without external references or shared models, memetic desire can lead to societal crises and conflict. The scapegoat mechanism, where blame is transferred onto a common enemy, can provide temporary relief and group cohesion.
• 🚗 The story of Lamborghini illustrates how memetic desire can lead to positive outcomes. Lamborghini imitated the best aspects of various car models, creating a superior product and becoming a rival to Ferrari. However, Lamborghini recognized the need to step back and avoid destructive rivalry, leading to a happy and fulfilled life.
• 🌟 Stepping into our own programming is possible by identifying our models of desire and understanding their influence on our goals and desires. This can involve reflecting on past influences, naming current models, and taking time for retreats or periods of silence to gain self-possession and perspective.
• 🌍 Having transcendent models or ideas that go beyond our immediate environment is crucial to avoiding being solely shaped by our age, culture, or societal norms. These models can provide a framework for a meaningful life and help us navigate the effects of memetic desire.

Transcript

i don't think it's possible to transcend memetic desire or to get rid of it completely we'll be rid of memetic desire when we're dead and it can be a tremendously powerful thing right it can spur us on to imitate great models um so i think we have a lot of agency but we you know freedom is something that we can win or lose i've got a quote that i n... Read More

Questions & Answers

Q: Is it possible to transcend memetic desire or get rid of it completely?

No, memetic desire is deeply ingrained in human nature and cannot be completely eliminated. However, we can become more aware of its influence and develop strategies to make more intentional choices.

Q: What is the role of social media in generating memetic desires?

Social media platforms like Instagram can intensify memetic desire by providing a constant stream of desires and models to imitate. It can be challenging to separate the signal from the noise and choose our own desires.

Q: Are there any desires that aren't mimetic?

While some desires may have instinctual or biological roots (e.g., the desire for food or water), most desires are influenced by models and social interactions. Even desires related to careers, lifestyles, and preferences are often influenced by the models we imitate.

Q: How does memetic desire relate to group dynamics and conflict?

Memetic desire can create conflict when people imitate the desires of others, leading to competition and rivalry. This can occur within social groups and even at a larger societal level. The scapegoat mechanism is often used to relieve tension and create group cohesion.

Q: How can individuals become more aware of their memetic desires?

One tactic is to examine the models and role models we have imitated throughout our lives, including in different domains such as finance, fitness, or relationships. Reflecting on our past and understanding the formation of our desires can help us gain insight into our current motivations.

Q: Is it beneficial to have models that transcend the current cultural and societal trends?

Yes, having models that transcend current trends can provide a broader perspective and give us a reference point outside of the immediate environment. These models can help us develop a sense of purpose and make choices that align with our values and long-term goals.

Q: How can individuals develop agency and intentional desires in the face of memetic influence?

Developing agency and intentional desires requires self-reflection, stepping back from the influence of others, and gaining perspective. Practices like retreats, journaling, and self-assessment can help individuals gain awareness of their desires and make more intentional choices.

Q: Is it possible to transcend memetic desire or get rid of it completely?

No, memetic desire is deeply ingrained in human nature and cannot be completely eliminated. However, we can become more aware of its influence and develop strategies to make more intentional choices.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Memetic desire is the human tendency to imitate the desires and behaviors of others.

• It is a powerful force that influences our wants and motivations, and it can be both adaptive and destructive.

• Our memetic desire is shaped by the models and role models we look up to, and it can have a profound impact on our lives and society.