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Page 5
Memes are Replicators by definition, in analogy to genes. This is the common denominator in Memetics, and most writers recognize it on the subject. (Dawkins 1976) started the definition of Memes in this way, and where memeticists differ in opinion on what should count as phenotype-genotype distinction (see Hull 1988a for some opinions) and even on what Memes are (see Benzon 1998 versus Speel 1998), they do agree that Memes are Replicators. A large part of memetics focuses mainly on the dissemination part of memetics that is directly related to replication. The Meme as thought contagion is a well-known view that focuses mainly on Memetic processes of dissemination. Aaron Lynch’s, Thought Contagion (1996) is perhaps the main work giving the Meme such connotations. Of course, Memes may be rightfully seen, as disseminating through human systems, but this view alone cannot account for natural or artificial selection involving Memes. Replicators, or the structural entities that are replicated, pass on their structure directly from generation to generation. In principle, Replicators can only Replicate themselves, but they can also produce entities that interact and this indirectly results in the replication of Replicators (by reproduction). These entities are known as: Interactors—'entities that directly interact as a cohesive whole with their environment in such a way that Replication is differential.' Memetic Journalism will continue July 1, 2003 when part two will be on the site. Review and satiation of this first article hopefully will prompt us for the remainder of this portion of the Memes series. Works cited: Dawkins R. (1976,1982) The selfish gene. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Gatherer, D., 1997; Macromemetics: Towards a Framework for the Re-unification of Philosophy. Journal of Memetics - Evolutionary Models of Information Transmission, 1. Mack & Monk. Acknowledgement: Eagle and Mark David. Genes, Memes, and Megathemes, Marshall, Garry. The Internet and Memetics School of Computing Science, Middlesex University, London N14 4XS, England. Speel, H.C.A.M. Memes are also Interactors Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management, Delft University of Technology. Underwood, Mick. Memes 09/16/2001. Check out this new course on Suite University that is available for you. New Age Writing Philosophies for Writing Enhancement provides workshop mechanisms to develop writer concentration and technique. This course is broad based. It provides insight and information for all levels of authorship.
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