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In a message dated 1/30/2001 2:43:01 PM Pacific Standard Time,
mcomm@total.net writes:
> Len:
>
> I am confused about the "magnetic mimetics" posts. What do they mean?
> They are beyond my ken? Maybe you can explain them.
>
> Marla, socked in with yet another massive blizzard
>
Hi Marla --
I belong to a memetics list group. The thrust of memetic literature
is that humans are shaped by their culture. My point is that each human
brain acts like a magnet, attracting only those aspects of the culture that
fit into its existing configuration. Yes, we are shaped by our culture but
only
to a degree; the rest is based on what other information is parked in our
cranium, as well as the physical condition of our brain---its capabilities.
Scott had no clue regarding my original post; it was based on a quote---
that I used---by a non-memeticist---but a piece of writing that neatly
summarizes my point of view:
>"We always attract into our lives whatever we think about most,
>believe in most strongly, expect on the deepest level, and
>imagine most vividly."
>
> - Shakti Gawain
The definition of meme:
A unit of cultural information, such as a cultural practice or idea,
that is transmitted verbally or by repeated action from one mind
to another.
The definition of memetics:
The study of memes and their social and cultural effects.
Again, my point is that a meme only gets successfully
transmitted to another person if the recipient's brain
is receptive to it, metaphorically speaking, attracts it
like a "magnet."
To personalize it: How much information would you normally
retain if you listened to someone discussing the latest
fashion trends in female attire?
As opposed to: How much information would you normally
retain if you listened to a meterologist discuss the possible
causes for the severe weather pattern currently endured
in Montreal?
You see my point, based on the memes already housed
in our brains, we are very selective in terms of which
additional memes are allowed entry.
Hope this helps.
Len
P. S. You've had so many blizzards, this has to be one of the most
miserable Montreal winters on record. Living in the South Pole
couldn't be much more disagreeable.
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