From: Bruce Edmonds (b.edmonds@mmu.ac.uk)
Date: Mon 19 Jan 2004 - 13:47:53 GMT
The Redefinition of Memes: Ascribing Meaning to an Empty Cliché
by Michael R. Lissack
Abstract
1 Introduction
2 Memes as Indexicals
2.1 Efficiency
2.2 Frames
2.3 Boundaries
3 Mechanisms
3.1 Gloms versus Indexicals
3.2 Multiplicity of Meanings
3.3 Conceptual Slippage
3.4 Least-Action Principle
4 Implications
Notes
References
Abstract
By redefining memes as efficient tools for evoking particular
affordances to be attended to in situ, this article argues that the
challenges Edmonds (2002) issued to memetics can be met. Such a
definition is consistent with theories of niche construction. The
indexical Dawkins created (meme=gene) has exceeded its carrying capacity
and thus lost its efficacy. Worse, that indexical is evoking images and
affordances which stand in the way of the memetics field making true
progress. It is time to recognize that ontic status has been misplaced.
Memes needs a new meme: meme as catalytic indexical.
Available at:
http://jom-emit.cfpm.org/2004/vol8/lissack_mr.html
This article has been republished by permission from Emergence
(www.emergence.org): A Journal of Complexity Issues in Organization and
Management Vol. 5 No. 3 pgs 48-65.
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