The Catholic anthropologist René Girard (1923–2015) has emerged as one
of the most important thinkers of the past century. His sweeping mimetic
theory changed the landscape of both the social sciences and Christian
theology. And with the rise of social media, political polarization, and
globalized conflict, Girard’s ideas have only proven
increasingly prophetic with every passing year.But where to
begin with this “new Darwin of the human sciences”? His massive body of
work remains daunting and disorienting, and secondary literature either
academic in tone or limited in scope. General readers—if Girard shows up
on their radar at all—face a high barrier of entry to understanding his
theory and applying it to daily life.I Came to Cast Fire offers
a timely solution: a comprehensive but accessible introduction to the
thought of René Girard. In short and digestible chapters, Fr. Elias Carr
takes readers through the basics of mimetic theory and how it plays out
through history—from the violent origins of religion and culture to the
radical revelation that unfolds in Christ—weaving in compelling
personal anecdotes along the way. The perfect first step for those new
to Girard, I Came to Cast Fire will not only inspire
readers to see the world in a new light—the fire of the Paraclete
proclaiming the innocence of the victim—but more importantly, to enter
into it.
Hardcover
Pages: 160