All Desire is a Desire for Being

A new selection of foundational works from the influential philosopher who developed the theory of mimetic desire.

René Girard eludes easy categories, bridging the fields of literary criticism, anthropology, sociology, history, religion, and theology. Influencing such writers as J. M. Coetzee and Milan Kundera, his insight into contagious violence looks ever more prophetic and relevant seven years after his death. In many ways, he is the thinker for our modern world of social media and herd behaviour.

In this newly selected collection of writings, Cynthia L. Haven has created an approachable anthology of his work, addressing Girard's thoughts on the nature of desire, human imitation and rivalry, the causes of conflict and violence, the deep structure of religion, and cultural subjects like opera and theatre.

Girard spoke to his times in language that was engaging, accessible, and often controversial. A long-time friend and colleague, Haven shines a spotlight on his role as a public intellectual and profound theorist, inviting a new generation to his corpus.

All Desire is a Desire for Being is essential reading for those looking to explore the enduring influence of René Girard and his groundbreaking ideas.