Hermeneutics: Mimetics vs. Reason

In daily life, people navigate decisions using different approaches, often without realizing it. Sometimes, we rely on imitation (mimetics)—following established norms, routines, or the behaviors of those before us. Other times, we use reasoning.

Consider a doctor treating a patient. If the doctor follows a mimetic approach, they might apply textbook treatments precisely as written, assuming that what worked in clinical trials will work in all cases. However, if they use reasoning, they consider the patient’s specific condition, medical history, and unique circumstances, adapting their treatment accordingly. While medical guidelines provide a structured framework, a real-world application often requires flexibility based on specific circumstances.

Similarly, in learning a language, some students adopt mimetic learning, memorizing phrases without truly understanding the rules behind them. Others apply reasoning, analyzing grammar, sentence structure, and context to adapt their communication. While mimetic learning helps with basic recall, true fluency requires reasoning and adaptability—adjusting to context rather than rigidly following set phrases.

Religious practice operates the same way. Some aspects of faith require strict imitation (mimetic approach), while others require reasoning. The challenge is determining which method applies in different areas of religious life.

Sunnis: Religion is Mostly Mimetic

Sunni Islam is the largest branch of Islam, comprising roughly 85-90% of Muslims worldwide. They have a famous maxim that they abide by: “Whoever imitates the people becomes one of them.” So, for them, the foundation of being Mulsim is based on imitation (tradition) more than anything else. They claim this was how the prophet exemplified righteousness, which is also how all believers should imitate. In the following Hadith found both in Bukhari and Muslim, it demonstrates they ascribe this way of thinking to the prophet.