[twayt]

I'm definitely not an expert on Girard's work but I agree with what you said. This seems to map on to the concept of `external` mediation [0].

I agree that `external` mimetic mediation does play a role in the choices that you described but I don't think Girard claims that this is the only way desire is mediated. Given multiple options, one's intrinsic desire of self-preservation and to live a high quality life might also play a factor in what one chooses for dinner.

On the other hand, there are a lot of cases where people take seemingly irrational actions because they seek safety in the masses. I think his theories are useful in explaining the latter. It would definitely be a stretch to claim that all desires are mimetic but it would also be a stretch to claim that there exists a human being that is devoid of mimetic desire.

I think it is definitely useful to understand his theories and observe them in action in society without it having to define your entire world view.

[0] https://iep.utm.edu/girard/#SH2a