占有及其限度——论吉拉尔的模仿理论

A Study of Girard's Imitative Theory

模仿论长期以来始终是西方文艺观念的基石之一,而吉拉尔的模仿理论在众多模仿论中独树一帜。吉拉尔将模仿视为构筑人类存在的始基,认为个体只能通过模仿他人的方式获得自我意识。由此,他认为个人自我意识的形成必然是占有性的,人与他人的关系必然是暴力性的。但吉拉尔的这种观念或许忽视了认知冲动和游戏冲动在模仿过程中同样的主导作用,它们可能与人类的占有意识有所交集,但未必都能被占有意识所涵括。吉拉尔的模仿理论对人类认识自我的根性具有高度的启发意义,但我们亦需对其理论不够自洽之处有所反思。

Girard＇s imitative theory is unique among all the theories of imitation. He regarded imita- tion as the very foundation of human existence. Unlike the traditional logic of subject-object rela- tions, Girard＇s theory held that individuals can only acquire self-consciousness by imitating oth- ers. The process of imitating others was not only the process of confirming the existence of oneself, but also the process of possessing the existence of others. Therefore, a hostile relationship between individuals and others will inevitably be constituted. In addition, all forms of human culture are founded on this imitative mechanism. However, Girard neglects the cognitive impulse and game pulse of human nature. The cognitive subjects are more freely, innovative and non-utilitarian, which reflects the non-possessive of imitative action. Girard＇s imitative theory is highly enlightening for our understanding of human nature and we should also reflect on some of the self-inconsistency in the theory.