What is memetic desire?

Memetic desire is a concept developed by French philosopher René Girard. It describes the idea that people often desire objects not for their inherent value but because others desire them, indicating that our choices are heavily influenced by the desires of others around us. This type of desire is driven by social models or mediators who influence our preferences and behaviors, often without our conscious awareness. The influence can extend beyond mere objects to desires for lifestyles, careers, or identities that are esteemed within our social circles 1.

This concept suggests that our desires are deeply interconnected and mimicry-based, reflecting broader social dynamics and personal identities rather than purely individual or intrinsic motivations 2.