Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World

Things Hidden Since the Foundation of the World presents a dialogue between French philosopher René Girard and psychiatrists Jean-Michel Oughourlian and Guy Lefort. The text explores fundamental mechanisms of human behavior and social interaction through anthropological, literary, and religious analysis. The book examines three core concepts: mimesis (the human tendency to imitate), scapegoating (collective transfer of guilt), and the role of violence in society. Through dialogue format, Girard builds upon his earlier work while introducing new perspectives on Biblical texts and human psychology. The work spans anthropology, psychology, literary criticism, and religious studies to present Girard's unified theory of human culture and violence. Its analysis moves from primitive societies through modern institutions, examining how ancient patterns persist in contemporary life. This landmark text challenges conventional interpretations of human nature and suggests that understanding these hidden mechanisms could transform our grasp of culture, religion, and interpersonal relationships. The implications of Girard's theories extend from individual psychology to global conflict resolution.

Readers describe this as Girard's most comprehensive work on mimetic theory and scapegoating, though many find it dense and academically challenging. Readers appreciate: - Clear explanations of mimetic desire and rivalries - Integration of anthropology, psychology, and religious studies - Fresh interpretations of Biblical texts - Detailed analysis of human violence and sacrifice Common criticisms: - Complex academic language makes it inaccessible - Interview format feels disorganized - Arguments can be repetitive - Some sections assume prior knowledge of Girard's work From review sites: Goodreads: 4.37/5 (245 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (31 ratings) Sample reader comments: "Fascinating ideas but requires serious concentration" - Goodreads "Changed how I view human behavior but the writing is tough going" - Amazon "The interview structure undermines the philosophical depth" - Goodreads "Worth the effort but not for casual readers" - Amazon

Violence and the Sacred by René Girard Explores the role of sacrifice and ritualized violence in ancient societies through anthropological case studies that complement Girard's core theories.

The Scapegoat by René Girard Examines historical texts and literature to reveal patterns of collective persecution and victimization across cultures.

Mimesis and Theory by Robert Doran Provides critical essays analyzing Girard's concepts of mimetic desire and scapegoating through philosophical and literary perspectives.

Violence Unveiled by Gil Bailie Applies Girardian theory to contemporary social issues and religious violence while examining historical patterns of sacrificial violence.

The Sacred and the Profane by Mircea Eliade Investigates religious symbolism and ritual across cultures with analysis that parallels Girard's anthropological approach to violence and the sacred.

🔸 René Girard developed his groundbreaking mimetic theory while teaching French literature at Stanford University, not through traditional anthropological or psychological research. 🔸 The book's title comes from Matthew 13:35, referencing "things hidden since the foundation of the world," emphasizing Girard's belief that certain truths about human nature have been encoded in religious texts. 🔸 The two psychiatrists who engage in dialogue with Girard in the book are Jean-Michel Oughourlian and Guy Lefort, both prominent figures in French psychological circles. 🔸 The concept of mimetic desire introduced in this book has influenced fields far beyond philosophy, including business strategy, where Peter Thiel credits Girard's ideas as fundamental to his investment philosophy. 🔸 Unlike many academic works, this book was first published in French as "Des choses cachées depuis la fondation du monde" (1978) and became an unexpected bestseller in France before its English translation.