Date: Tue, 31 Aug 1999 11:49:52 +0200
From: "Gatherer, D. (Derek)" <D.Gatherer@organon.nhe.akzonobel.nl>
Subject: RE: i-memes and m-memes
To: "'memetics@mmu.ac.uk'" <memetics@mmu.ac.uk>
Robin:
Let's look at the alternative to starting the "behaviourist vs.
mentalist" thing again.
Consider: every meme has a life cycle consisting of two main stages --
storage in the brain, and transmission via behaviour. Artefactual
transmission is a special case of behavioural transmission, requiring
for example writing and reading behaviours.
In this scenario, observed imitative behaviour is sufficient evidence of
brain involvement. Because the "i-meme" (I prefer "i-form") is not
isolated, as it is in the Dawkins B scenario, it does not require
independent verification. All of the empirical work can be done on
behaviours, with the brain brought in as and when appropriate to
complete the explanations.
Derek:
But what explanations? Can you give me an example, in the format above, of
a situation where behaviours are the main object of study, but bringing
brain entities in is in some way necessary for a complete explanation?
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