David Deutsch & Rene Girard
Scapegoating, anti-rational memes, and infinite progress
Micah Redding, Kahlil Corazo, and Max Schultz delve into the philosophies of René Girard and David Deutsch.
What is progress? How did it begin? Why did it take thousands of years to get off the ground? What was the spark that opened the door to infinity?
David Deutsch and René Girard both have answers to these questions. Their answers come from very different angles, yet have surprising overlap and resonance.
Girard says humanity began in imitation, descended into chaos, achieved order through scapegoating, and was ultimately freed from this through the story of Christ. Girard says progress depends on our continuing to confront this story.
Deutsch says humanity began in imitation, descended into chaos, achieved order through anti-rational memes, and was ultimately freed from this through ideas embedded in western thought prior to the scientific revolution. Deutsch says progress depends on our continuing the traditions surrounding these ideas.
These thinkers challenge our understanding of history, culture, and the future of human society. Whether you're familiar with their work or new to these concepts, this conversation offers a compelling look at the dynamic interplay between two influential minds, and the question of the enduring impact of the Christian story on Western civilization.
Guests
Explorations, by Kahlil Corazo
Mimesis and Infinity, by Max Schulz
Books mentioned
Rajah Versus Conquistador (Kahlil Corazo)
I See Satan Fall Like Lightning (René Girard)