Mimetic and Ritual Processes as Social Institutions. Transformative Opportunities in the Anthropocene

Abstract

In the Anthropocene a central task is to conserve our natural and cultural heritages which are closely interwoven. This is no easy task. Many negative effects of human activity and behavior in central areas of society are produced in complex mimetic processes, rituals and gestures and then reinforced by repetitions. To break the vicious circle of negative anthropogenic developments many political, cultural and social practices must change their focus to that of the goals of sustainable development. For this to happen mimetic processes and rituals need to be practiced critically, particularly in the areas of education and socialization.

Keywords

• cultural heritages
• Anthropocene
• mimetic processes