Abstract: Girard's mimetic theory, "[t]he intense capacity of humans to imitate is what forces them to become what they are". Do social media users unconsciously emulate an inclination towards successful or desirable narratives? Can the media influence the user in shaping his mimetic desire and social validation-seeking behaviour? Algorithmic design, social validation mechanisms, and global cultural dynamics create the phenomenon of conformity in visual aesthetics and lifestyle presentation. In parallel, the digital platform helps in reinforcing the social validation-seeking......
Keywords: Social media influence, mimetic desire, social validation-seeking, engagement metrics, digital mimicry, cultural continuity
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