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Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World
Series: Bloomsbury Revelations
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Check link for latest rating. ( 844 ratings, 116 reviews)
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Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World
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Description
Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World presents a highly original global theory of culture. Dr René Girard, through his profound exploration, delves into the intricate workings of human civilisation, unveiling the concealed forces that shape societies. Girard investigates the pivotal role of violence, the pervasive phenomenon of mimetic desire, and the crucial mechanism of the scapegoat in the evolution of human history and religion.
In this seminal work, Girard offers an unparalleled vision that challenges conventional perspectives in literature, anthropology, philosophy, and psychoanalysis. His theory exposes the underpinnings of human behaviour and societal constructs, proposing that our desires are not unique but are imitated from others—a concept he refers to as "mimetic desire". This imitation often leads to rivalry, tension, and, ultimately, violence.
Furthermore, Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World elucidates the mechanism of the scapegoat. Girard argues that societies channel their collective violence towards a chosen victim, a scapegoat, to restore harmony and avoid mutual destruction. This groundbreaking analysis extends to the foundations of religious rituals and myths, suggesting that many ancient stories and cultural traditions have their roots in this communal violence and the subsequent scapegoating process.
With unparalleled insight, Girard traverses through an array of disciplines, drawing connections that illuminate the nature of human behaviour. He challenges readers to rethink the structures of society and the undercurrents of human aggression and desire. His brilliant and often devastating propositions invite a deep reconsideration of what drives human action and societal norms.
Girard’s work is pivotal for those interested in understanding the deeper elements that influence our culture and societal evolution. Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World is not just a book; it's a transformative journey that compels one to look beyond the visible and question the hidden foundations of human interaction and institutional development.
Prepare to be intellectually provoked and challenged by Girard's sweeping analysis and his compelling narrative that intertwines diverse fields of study to provide a coherent, comprehensive theory of human culture.
Series: Bloomsbury Revelations
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Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World
Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World presents a highly original global theory of culture. Dr René Girard, through his profound exploration, delves into the intricate workings of human civilisation, unveiling the concealed forces that shape societies. Girard investigates the pivotal role of violence, the pervasive phenomenon of mimetic desire, and the crucial mechanism of the scapegoat in the...Paperback$6099Unit price /UnavailableBackorderShips early August -
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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World by Dr René Girard is praised for its sweeping and ambitious exploration of cultural origins, likened to the monumental works of 19th-century intellectual giants. Reviewers commend Girard for his profound, original insights and his ability to deconstruct myth with readable and provocative prose. Considered one of the most striking theories of human culture, it stands out in its field.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781474268431
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 25 February 2016
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Bloomsbury Academic
Contributors:
- Translated by Stephen Bann
- Translated by Michael Metteer
Audience: Tertiary education
DIMENSIONS
Width: 138.0mm
Height: 216.0mm
Weight: 636g
Pages: 464
About the Author
René Girard (1923-) was Andrew B. Hammond Professor Emeritus of French Language, Literature, and Civilization at Stanford University, USA, from 1981 to his retirement in 1995. A historian, literary critic and philosopher, he is the author of over 30 books including Violence and the Sacred.
Also by Dr René Girard
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Violence and the Sacred
Violence and the Sacred is René Girard's landmark study of human evil. Here, Girard explores violence as it is represented and occurs throughout history, literature, and myth. Girard's forceful and thought-provoking analyses of Biblical narrative, Greek tragedy, and the lynchings and pogroms propagated by contemporary states illustrate his central argument that violence belongs to everyone and is at the heart...Paperback$4999Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks -
Evolution and Conversion
Evolution and Conversion explores the main tenets of René Girard's thought in a series of dialogues. Here, Girard reflects on the evolution of his thought and offers striking new insights on topics such as violence, religion, desire, and literature. His long argument is a historical one, in which the origin of culture and religion is reunited in the contemporary world...Paperback$3299Unit price /UnavailableAvailableShips in 4-6 weeks
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