On the Relationship Between Memes and Genes: A Critique of Dennett

Author: Whitmeyer J.M.

Source: Biology and Philosophy, Volume 13, Number 2, April 1998 , pp. 187-204(18)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Dennett (1995) argues that memes or cultural replicators are largely autonomous of genes, and that they are fairly efficacious in determining who we are and what we do. I argue that Dennett's arguments are wrong in several aspects, which we can see by analyzing processes at appropriate levels. Specifically, I argue that it is not true that we as persons are created largely by memes, that our memes are not largely independent of our genes, and that we can use the universality of memes to make inferences about genetic predispositions. Finally, by suggesting an innate psychological mechanism for morality, I argue that morality may be largely the effect of genetic predispositions rather than autonomous.

Keywords: evolution; meme; gene; morality; culture; psychological predisposition

Language: English

Document Type: Regular paper

Affiliations: 1: University of North Carolina – Charlotte, 9201 University City Boulevard, Charlottte, NC 28223-0001, USA

Publication date: 1998-04-01