The Meme Machine

"The Meme Machine," a concept from Susan Blackmore's book, suggests that memes—cultural ideas, behaviors, or symbols—spread and evolve similarly to genes. Memes are transmitted through imitation and social interaction, shaping human culture and evolution over time. The idea emphasizes that our minds are influenced by the memes we adopt, and in turn, our behaviors help propagate these cultural units. This framework highlights the role of imitation in cultural development and how memes compete, mutate, and survive based on their appeal and adaptability within societies.