Memes and the evolution of religion: We need memetics, too

Behav Brain Sci. 2016 Jan:39:e5. doi: 10.1017/S0140525X15000357.

Abstract

In their analysis, Norenzayan et al. completely ignore memetics, which, unlike other theories, treats memes as replicators and looks to memetic as well as genetic advantage. Now that memes are evolving ever faster, genetic advantage is less relevant. So when religious and secular values are at odds, we need a memetic analysis to understand what is going on.

Publication types

  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Biological Evolution*
  • Humans
  • Religion*