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In this insightful paper, How To Scapegoat the Leader, based on a talk given by Thomas Michael. He introduces the work of Rene Girard, and his “mimetic [imitation – ed.] theory”.

In the course of time the cycle of chaotic violence, followed by the scapegoating of an individual or small group and the return to relative tranquility resulted in the establishment of the prohibitions, hierarchies, rituals and institutions that constitute what we call culture…

In violent times the violence becomes contagious, and eventually the community needs to restabilize again. And in extreme cases this may result in the scapegoating of the leader, rather than on a random figure.

The authority figure is a marginal insider who is always in danger of being scapegoated by the mob whenever there is unrest. Both the authority and subordinates are fearful of chaos, so everyone demands rules, procedures, hierarchies and prohibitions to maintain order. Any member of the group who becomes too much like the leader may be accused of causing trouble.

Here is the entire article.