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Wanting

The Power of Mimetic Desire, and How to Want What You Need

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Wanting

Written by: Luke Burgis
Narrated by: Luke Burgis, Sean Patrick Hopkins
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About this listen

A groundbreaking exploration of why we want what we want, and a toolkit for freeing ourselves from chasing unfulfilling desires.

Humans don't desire anything independently. Human desire is mimetic - we imitate what other people want. This affects the way we choose partners, friends, careers, clothes and travel destinations. Mimetic desire is responsible for the formation of our very identities. It explains the enduring relevancy of Shakespeare's plays, why Peter Thiel decided to be the first investor in Facebook, and why our world is growing more divided as it becomes more connected.

Drawing on his experience as an entrepreneur, teacher and student of classical philosophy, Luke Burgis shares tactics that help turn blind wanting into intentional wanting - to be more in control of the things we want, and to find more meaning in our work and lives.

©2021 Faber & Faber (P)2021 Faber & Faber Psychology Psychology & Mental Health Self-Help Social Psychology & Interactions Success
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Loved the detailed, nuanced perspective of human desires explained with real life anecdotes and the human phenomenon hiding in plain sight. I feel like I understand the world so much better now. I'm walking out reading this book kinder, more empathetic and able to redirect my own desires in the correct way.

Amazing, beyond expectation!

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This book will be your journey to understand your desire and beyond. You will learn what matter the most.

look beyond desire

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