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Memetic approach to cultural evolution.

Dmitry Ermakov1, Alexander Ermakov2

  • 1Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), 6 Miklukho-Maklaya Street, Moscow, 117198, Russia.

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|February 19, 2021
PubMed
Summary

Memetics applies biological evolution principles to understand cultural evolution. This review examines the strengths and weaknesses of memetics in explaining cultural and technological change.

Keywords:
Biological evolutionEvolution of cultureEvolution of societyImitationMemeMemetic evolutionTechnological progress

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary Biology
  • Cultural Anthropology
  • Cognitive Science

Background:

  • Charles Darwin's theory of natural selection extends beyond biology to adaptive changes in language, consciousness, and technology.
  • Cultural transmission is not exclusive to humans, suggesting biological underpinnings for cultural evolution.
  • Various theories explore the biological basis of cultural evolution, with memetics offering a distinct perspective.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the strengths and weaknesses of the memetic approach to studying cultural phenomena.
  • To analyze memetics within the context of human cultural and technological evolution.
  • To clarify the nature of memes and their replication mechanisms.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of memetics and cultural evolution theories.
  • Comparative analysis of biological and cultural replicator concepts.
  • Examination of memetic principles in relation to adaptive cultural changes.

Main Results:

  • Memetics utilizes the concept of the meme as a biological replicator, drawing analogies with biological evolution.
  • The conceptual similarity between biological and cultural replicators is noted.
  • The precise nature and replication mechanisms of memes remain areas requiring further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • The memetic approach provides a framework for understanding cultural evolution by drawing parallels with biological evolution.
  • Despite its strengths, the memetic approach faces challenges in fully elucidating the mechanisms of meme replication.
  • Further research is needed to refine the understanding of memes and their role in cultural and technological advancement.